Lands and Agriculture minister Perrance Shiri has died and his death was announced by his deputy in the ministry honourable Vangelis Haritatos.
The development was also confirmed by President Mnangagwa, several other government officials and Norton legislator (independent) Temba Mliswa on social media.
Haritatos posted on Facebook on Wednesday saying he had been shocked by the development. He said:
I received a call in the early hours of this morning with shocking news. It is with a heavy heart that I learnt of the passing on of Air Chief Marshall (RTD) P. Shiri.
I have worked with Cde. Shiri for almost two years now as his deputy Minister.He was an extremely hard worker, dedicated to our Nation, a patriot, and a nationalist.I will truly miss him and promise to continue with his vision of making Zimbabwe the breadbasket of Africa once again.Go well Honourable Minister Shiri.
May His Soul Rest In Eternal Peace
The cause of death remains unknown although it is suspected that he succumbed to the novel virus after his driver had died of the coronavirus.
Shiri missed cabinet on Tuesday with reports suggesting that he had been admitted to a local hospital.
The former Airforce Commander’s death follows the suspension of Parliament after two legislators tested positive for the coronavirus.
Since the closure of Parliament on Monday, two Members of Parliament, Shiri and Masango Matambanadzo of National Patriotic Front have died.
More: Temba Mliswa