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Inside/Out with liberation war veteran Wilfred Mhanda (aka Dzinashe Machinugura)
Kubatana.net
August 16, 2011

Full interview with Wilfred Mhanda - Read and listen

Describe yourself in five words?
I'm committed to the values of freedom, democracy and respect for human dignity and social justice.

What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
To remain true to myself and follow my conscience and uphold the values associated with integrity.

What's the most ridiculous thing you've ever done?
That's a difficult one ... probably letting my emotions get the best of me, and telling some people off. I could do it better.

What is your most treasured possession?
My conscience.

What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
Losing hope.

Do you have any strange hobbies?
Drinking alcohol with friends.

What do you dislike most about your appearance?
There is no part of me that I dislike.

What is your greatest extravagance?
Needlessly travelling around, it costs money.

What do you have in your fridge?
There is food there are drinks.

What is your greatest fear?
I'm generally not afraid of too many things. I'm prepared for almost anything.

What have you got in your pockets right now?
My wallet, my car keys and my handkerchief.

What is your favourite journey?
That's a difficult one. I think my journey in struggling for justice and equality.

Who are your heroes in real life?
Julius Nyerere of Tanzania, Nelson Mandela and Mac Maharaj.

When and where were you happiest?
During the struggle. Many people wouldn't think that. But that feeling of being prepared to sacrifice for what you believe in makes you very happy.

What is your biggest vice?
I drink alcohol, not without restraint, but I think I could do it less.

What were you like at school?
I had a lot of friends, stood for what I believed in, but I was also on the naughty side.

What are you doing next?
I'm working towards the publication of what I wrote in prison, which actually should have been published first.

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