TJ: How did your family react when you told them that you were standing as a candidate for Harare West for the MDC (Ncube)?
SK: They were really scared saying that I was putting my life and theirs in danger but eventually they accepted it. We are now working as a team.
TJ: Do you stand a chance to win in the next election?
SK: Absolutely yes, I was chosen by the people. I have lived in this area for the past 20 years so I am well acquainted with the people. I became popular during my time as a police officer because I used to assist in solving criminal disputes in the neighbourhood.
I served the Zimbabwe Republic Police from 2001 to 2009 as a constable and the people in my constituency used to engage me a lot. I allowed them to come to my house for help any time, though I was not operating in the area. I later resigned as I wanted to run my own businesses, engage in politics fulltime and to further my studies.
I am currently studying for a Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Development with UNISA.
TJ: How would you contribute towards the emancipation of women in your constituency?
SK: I have been engaged in roundtable clubs with the women in my area and I am fully aware of their challenges.
Most women are involved in small scale businesses but they lack capital and access to decent markets. You find that women often lose their goods as they are confiscated by the council for operating at undesignated points.
Women need decent market places with enough water, safe stands, good light and shade. I will ensure that safe structures are installed and women are protected from bad weather and criminals. It is important for women to carry out their business with pride and dignity.
TJ: What are some of the challenges facing your constituents?
SK: Our roads are full of potholes and have poor markings, which has caused an increase in accidents. The situation is worsened because of the absence of street lights.
It is not safe for people to move around when it is dark. The plight of domestic workers is also of concern; it’s about time they were respected by getting better wages and off time.
People are exposed to unsafe sources of water as water is not easily accessible.
The supply is affected by unending power cuts. There should be a difference between village and urban life but when people start using “mufuku” an open water source, is that life?
TJ: How has your neighbourhood changed considering you have been around for the past 20 years?
SK: So many things have changed for the worse. Crime is high and garbage is everywhere. Growing up in this suburb we used to have good play areas. The lawn was green with blooming flowers which is now a thing of the past. Children need time together in safe areas but today you cannot let your child out of your sight.
TJ: Women have been accused of failing to make any meaningful contribution when elected into power. What is your view about this assertion?
SK: The problem is that at times women are not capacitated before they are elected into power. A candidate is often chosen out of bravery or for the sole reason of wanting to achieve gender equality which is not enough. It is important to choose people who are competent and this does not apply to women alone.
We are happy that we now have 60 additional seats in Parliament, but this should not be about numbers alone, it should translate to ability. I am furthering my studies so that I can boost my confidence by making meaningful contributions from an informed position. Reading newspapers on a daily basis could be a starting point for one to know what is happening in the country and around the globe.
TJ: MPs are known for abandoning their constituencies once they are voted into power. How are you going to ensure you stay in touch with people if you win the election?
SK: I will continue working with the women in our roundtable clubs. I will establish an office in my constituency so that I can be easily accessible. Greediness can make people go away but lam a God fearing woman and will ensure that I serve the people.
Post published in: News