Temba Mliswa, a Norton MP, says that people who are registered voters but do not vote should face sanctions for squandering taxpayers’ money.
Mliswa raised worry over voter apathy among Zimbabweans in reaction to South African opposition leader Julius Malema’s commitment to assist Zimbabweans in returning home to vote in the impending general elections on August 23rd. Individuals who chose to stay home on election day should suffer consequences, according to him.
Mliswa stated:
Julius Malema must understand that the people already here in Zimbabwe don’t want to vote again! Since 2000 the average voter turnout has been a measly 45,67%. The recent March 26 by-elections had even worse turnout figures according to ZEC.
The first task is to convince those who are here to go out and vote. That’s why I had proposed moving a motion that registered voters who don’t vote should be penalized because they are wasting taxpayers’ money.
Those in the diaspora are even worse and won’t come to vote. It’s as simple as that. They can’t be depended upon by any party.
The most depressing about our politics is that people are losing confidence in the electoral system as an avenue for change and development.
Therefore this benefits the incumbent massively. As for Kasukuwere, it’s unthinkable how an effective political campaign can be carried out from outside the country.
With all the facts about our political context, how can one gain followers when they themselves are hiding outside?
What confidence is inspired in potential supporters? Therefore there is no alternative to being on the ground. Social media can only work to a limited extent.
Tyson is my comrade& friend but I will say the truth that he needs to be on the ground if he intends to make an impact.
People may want change but it has to be planned for. It won’t happen by chance without a plan. Look at the Chinese and how they have developed themselves over time.
Be on the ground, 5 years working, and then contest. That will work.”
On Thursday, Malema announced during the EFF’s 10th-anniversary celebration at Uncle Tom’s Community Centre in Soweto, that they are prepared to arrange buses to transport Zimbabweans back to their home country, enabling them to participate in the general elections and vote for the government they desire.
