Deputy Prime Minister Thokozani Khupe, who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer, says she will soldier on despite her illness and urged others to do likewise saying the condition does not mean death.
Addressing MDC-T supporters at a campaign rally at Sakubva Stadium in Mutare on Sunday, Khupe said:
“You heard that I am sick and dying, but I want to encourage you that if you have cancer don’t be afraid, you won’t die. And, if you are HIV positive, you don’t die. Go to a hospital and get treatment. Do I look sick? I know you are praying for me.”
In June this year, Khupe revealed she had breast cancer, but refuted claims she was seriously ill. She is currently undergoing chemotherapy that has kept her off duty for months.
Khupe’s statements come at a time there are calls for government to strengthen the country’s cancer-support systems to ensure patients gain access to affordable treatment.
Recently, musician Tongai Moyo, who is also battling non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a form of cancer, called on government to raise awareness and give attention to cancer.
Khupe told the same gathering it was sad that Zimbabweans were poor yet the country had resources that could make them rich.
“Zimbabwe has resources like gold, platinum, diamonds, but when I look at you, there is poverty in your eyes, yet (your) eyes must glitter with gold and diamonds. Is it the Zimbabwe we want?” said Khupe.
- Chamisa under fire over US$120K donation
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Pension funds bet on Cabora Bassa oilfields
- Councils defy govt fire tender directive
Keep Reading
Khupe urged the electorate to vote in candidates who would deliver.
