In a rare display of bipartisan unity, Members of Parliament (MPs) in Zimbabwe have voiced their frustrations over the delayed payment of allowances, which they argue is hindering their ability to fulfill their parliamentary responsibilities.
During a session in the National Assembly on Thursday, MPs highlighted that they have gone without allowances for the past nine months. This has raised alarms about attendance at legislative sessions, with some lawmakers revealing that financial pressures are forcing them to find alternative income sources.
Caston Matewu, an MP from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), directly addressed Deputy Speaker Tsitsi Gezi, stating, “I must emphasize, Madam Speaker, it has been nine months since we last received our allowances. I’m not sure about you, but for many Members of Parliament, this has created serious challenges.” He pointed out that the visible empty seats in the chamber reflect growing disillusionment among lawmakers who are compelled to prioritize personal business to support their families.
Matewu urged the Deputy Speaker to advocate for the swift release of these allowances, stressing that the financial shortfall is detrimental to their legislative duties. “I doubt we will even be able to travel to Bulawayo without our allowances,” he remarked, referring to upcoming parliamentary obligations.
In addition to allowances, MPs in Zimbabwe are entitled to stipends and vehicles to assist in their constituency duties, as well as Community Development Funds (CDF) meant for local development initiatives. However, many legislators have reported significant delays in the allocation and distribution of these crucial funds.
Zanu-PF Rushinga MP Tendai Nyabani echoed similar frustrations regarding the CDF, stating that despite government promises, these funds have not been disbursed. “I was informed that US$50,000 was allocated; I am uncertain if my colleagues have received their share because this issue has lingered for far too long,” Nyabani said. He expressed concern over the need for timely distribution, especially given urgent community issues like storm damage repairs.
Nyabani insisted that MPs should not have to plead for their entitlements, urging the government to meet its obligations regarding allowances and CDF. “As Members of Parliament, we should not be in a position to beg; if we were promised something, it should be delivered on time,” he emphasized.
The issues raised by these MPs highlight a broader problem within Zimbabwe’s political climate, where financial instability and insufficient support obstruct the effectiveness of elected officials. As parliament grapples with these challenges, the unity displayed by lawmakers across party lines underscores the critical need for the government to resolve these financial concerns and uphold its commitments to its representatives.
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Source- Bulawayo 24
