Harare — Senate yesterday paid tribute to the late Vice President Joseph Msika's immense contribution to nationalism and the fight against the colonial repressive regime leading to the country's independence in 1980.

His contribution was above partisan politics, senators said. VP Msika, a fearless founding nationalist, died in August and was declared a national hero. He was buried at the National Heroes Acre.

Senators from across the political divide were unanimous in debating the motion moved by Beitbridge Senator Tambudzani Mohadi (Zanu-PF.)

In her contribution, Sen Mohadi chronicled the life history of the late Vice President from his early years, his activism in the fight against repressive regime, his detention for his political views, among other contributions.

"He never got tired in his quest to see his country liberated. That Vice President Msika was principled was unquestionable. We will always cherish his work," said Sen Mohadi.

Chisipite Senator Obert Gutu (MDC-T) said the virtues the Vice President conferred the nation with were there for everyone to emulate.

"The late Vice President did not believe in the ills of tribalism (and), radicalism. It is because of that I believe we should pay homage (to him)," said Sen Gutu.

He described Vice President Msika as a hero.

"He was a nationalist to the end of his life. He was consistent throughout his life," he said.

Mazowe Senator Agness Dete (Zanu-PF) said she had known the Vice President as her neighbour in Chiweshe and as a person from her constituency.

"I was his Senator because he was from my constituency. He was very humble and would easily interact with his contemporaries, he would drive himself while at home," said Sen Dete.

"He was not only a hero for Zanu-PF but for the whole country."