National tribute to Feliciano Gundana, "founder of the nation"

Directly from Porto, Portugal, the President of the Republic, Daniel Francisco Chapo, addressed the Mozambican people this Tuesday to express, on behalf of the nation, deep sorrow for the passing of Feliciano Gundana. A national hero and one of the historical founders of the Mozambique Liberation Front (FRELIMO), his passing was described by the Head of State as "a moment of great sadness for Mozambique".

In his opening remarks, President Chapo confessed to having received the news “with great sadness and dismay.” He then highlighted Gundana’s decisive contribution to the liberation struggle that culminated in independence on June 25, 1975. “It was thanks to him, along with other founders of the Mozambique Liberation Front,” he stated, emphasizing that the veteran was among the architects of national identity.

The Government and FRELIMO, the statesman assured, closely followed the illness of the historic leader, ensuring him medical assistance both inside and outside the country. In extending his condolences, Chapo addressed not only the bereaved family, but also FRELIMO and all Mozambicans, stating that the mourning is truly national, affecting citizens “from Rovuma to Maputo, from Zumbo to the Indian Ocean and in the diaspora”. He symbolically reinforced that Gundana was “practically a founder of the nation”.

Regarding the final preparations, the President informed that contacts are underway with the family to define the date and format of the funeral ceremonies. He assured that the State is preparing a funeral of national importance, recalling the tradition that national heroes rest in the crypt dedicated to them, unless otherwise requested.

In profiling the honoree, Daniel Chapo described Gundana as "a great man of values, not only human and family values, but above all, patriotic values." He also praised his tireless commitment to defending national unity, peace, and reconciliation, and his constant struggle for a developed Mozambique where well-being reaches all the people.

To illustrate his dedication until the very end, the President recalled that, even in his weakened state, Gundana was present at the launch of the Inclusive National Dialogue in September and actively participated in various party and state events. His extensive career in service to the nation was also mentioned, including his positions as governor of Nampula and Inhambane, in addition to other roles he held before and after Independence.

In a tone of heartfelt recognition, the Mozambican leader referred to Gundana as "a humble, hardworking, patriotic man who always thought of the Mozambican people," considering his death "an irreparable loss." He therefore stressed the need for the State and the people to preserve and promote the values ​​that the veteran defended throughout his life.

 Concluding his message of tribute and call to action, President Daniel Chapo stated that Gundana's memory should serve as a collective inspiration: “This sadness that shakes us at this moment is a sadness that must serve as a source of inspiration for us to continue working to develop the country.” His legacy, he concluded, remains inextricably linked to the pillars of sovereignty, peace, reconciliation, national unity, and the sacred values ​​of independence.