VICE President and Zanu-PF Second Secretary Cde Joice Mujuru yesterday commended President Mugabe for his resilience in the face of adversity and for leading empowerment programmes to benefit the people.

She was speaking while moving a motion to note the Central Committee report to the 13th Annual National People's Conference and giving a vote of thanks at the end of the opening ceremony.

"You have remained steadfast in defence of the indigenisation and empowerment programmes when others would have retreated to conform to the interests of the powerful and wealthy nations," she said.

VP Mujuru said President Mugabe remained unwavering even after the imposition of illegal sanctions by Britain and its allies.

"Your capable hands kept under check the devastating effects of the illegal sanctions both declared and undeclared. No other nation has been placed under such savagery and remained calm and peaceful," she said.

VP Mujuru said President Mugabe transformed Zimbabwe economically since he assumed power in 1980.

"Over the years, you have managed to transform the economic outlook of Zimbabwe from one that was controlled by a few individuals to a broad-based participatory one," she said.

VP Mujuru said the education policy for all adopted by Government at independence, the land reform programme and the indigenisation drive were examples of policies adopted to include formerly marginalised communities. She called on beneficiaries of the party's empowerment policies to remain loyal to Zanu-PF.

"I call upon all Zimbabweans, particularly the beneficiaries of the indigenisation and empowerment programmes to come out in full support of the party, the party that made them who they are," she said.

VP Mujuru said only Zimbabweans had the right to elect their leaders.

"For one to lead Zimbabwe one should be chosen by the people of Zimbabwe.

"Leadership chosen by outsiders is not sustainable and will not last. Zanu-PF cannot and will never be a puppet of interests of outsiders. Let Zimbabwe and the whole world know that come 2013 victory is certain."

VP Mujuru called for unity within the party, saying divisions would cost the party as a whole.