THE passing away of Eric Bloch marks a great loss not only to Bulawayo, but to the whole of Zimbabwe. David Coltart
I have no doubt that many others will speak and write about his professional competence and the great work he did in guiding Zimbabwean businesses through the treacherous economic waters this country has negotiated for almost the whole of his professional life.
I would rather write about his character, because in so many ways that was more important than his professional expertise.
Eric was widely respected throughout Zimbabwe by people from all walks of life, irrespective of their race or political background. The reason for this was because of Eric’s consistency, objectivity and balance.
For a start, Eric opposed the Unilateral Declaration of Independence not just on economic grounds, but because he felt that racial discrimination was wrong. Because of this fundamental belief he endeared himself to black Zimbabweans and it gave him great moral authority to criticise post-independence policies.
He always had a vision for a multiracial, democratic and free Zimbabwe, long before majority rule came about.
For that reason he could never be accused of having some ulterior motive in his critique of post-independence economic policy.
Another reason he enjoyed such widespread respect was because he did not personalise his critiques. While he was robust, bold and forthright in his condemnation of government policies, he very rarely attacked the individual.
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In one’s interaction with him, it was clear that he held very little malice even against some of his principal protagonists. This enabled him to be one of the most strident critics of Zanu PF policies over many years without ever really incurring their wrath.
Because he was a man of such great integrity, it was very difficult for his opponents to find fault in him. He had a great ability to disarm his opponents through his gentle smiling eyes and his ability to point out the funny side of even the gravest problems.
Eric was also a man of deep and genuine faith, and he lived out his faith in his lifestyle. He was a loving husband and father. Although virtually a workaholic, he always made sure that his family and local community were well looked after.
In a country plagued by corruption and abuse of power, Eric lived an exemplary life. He did not use his status in society to lord it over others.
He lived modestly; he lived in the same house for decades, a house which was readily accessible to all. I was always intrigued that he used to drive around in relatively ramshackle motor vehicles.
“Bling” is certainly a word one would never associate with Eric! In that regard he presented a different standard to Zimbabweans — a constant reminder of what true leadership is all about — servant leadership, humility, showing respect for all.
Finally my view is that Eric’s life demonstrates the true qualities of a Zimbabwean patriot and hero.
He was deeply committed to the well-being of Zimbabwe and worked tirelessly to make Zimbabwe a better place for all, and to encourage those in leadership to act in the best interests of all Zimbabweans not themselves.
His constructive criticism was always designed to take us to a better place, never just for the sake of criticism. At this difficult time in our nation’s history we desperately need more sane, logical and intelligent voices like Eric’s.
