Coltart Reconnects With Archbishop Pius Ncube, Praises His Courage

Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart reconnects with retired Archbishop Pius Ncube, praising his courage in exposing Gukurahundi atrocities and speaking out against human rights abuses in Zimbabwe (image source)

BULAWAYO — Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart has revealed that he recently reconnected with retired Roman Catholic Archbishop Pius Ncube, describing him as one of Zimbabwe’s “true heroes” for his courage in confronting human rights abuses during some of the country’s most turbulent years.

Archbishop Ncube, a former head of the Catholic Archdiocese of Bulawayo, rose to national prominence for his outspoken condemnation of the Gukurahundi atrocities of the 1980s. His stance made him a controversial but widely respected figure, particularly in Matabeleland, where he openly challenged state violence at a time when few dared to do so.

In a message shared on his Facebook page, Coltart said he was pleased to meet Ncube in Bulawayo over the weekend and reflected on the archbishop’s legacy. “Yesterday I met with an old friend of mine and one of Zimbabwe’s true heroes, retired Catholic Archbishop Pius Ncube,” Coltart wrote. “Archbishop Pius showed astonishing bravery between 1983 and 1985 when, as a parish priest with very little protection, he reported on terrible atrocities being committed by the 5 Brigade in rural Matabeleland.”

Ncube was later transferred from Bulawayo to Matabeleland North following an alleged sexual scandal involving a woman named Rosemary, who is now deceased. Many of his supporters believe the incident was a politically motivated sting operation orchestrated under the late former President Robert Mugabe’s administration, aimed at neutralising one of the regime’s most vocal critics.

Coltart said Ncube’s moral courage continued after his elevation to Archbishop, noting that he consistently spoke out against political violence and human rights violations from the early 2000s onward. He added that Ncube, who turns 80 next year, remains a personal inspiration.

During their meeting, the two discussed a range of contemporary national issues, including proposed changes to Zimbabwe’s abortion laws and the persistent problem of corruption. Coltart concluded his tribute with a personal blessing, writing: “God bless and keep you, Pius.”

Archbishop Ncube’s legacy remains complex but deeply significant. To supporters, he is remembered as a fearless church leader who risked his position and personal safety to speak truth to power. The reunion with Coltart underscores enduring relationships forged in the struggle for justice and accountability, and highlights the continued relevance of Ncube’s voice in Zimbabwe’s ongoing debates around governance, morality and reform.