Debating a motion on the achievements of the GNU two years into office, the upper house was split down the middle on elections. Senator Ncube, who initiated the motion, said the lifespan of Parliament expires in 2013, and instead of sabre rattling about elections, the GNU should use the money budgeted for elections and pay civil servants.
“Civil servants are crying about their salaries. Why does the government not take the money meant for elections and boost their salaries?” Ncube said. “After all, the term of this Seventh Parliament is due to close in 2013; why the hurry when the economy has improved? Electoral reforms have not been tackled, the voters roll is in shambles with dead people still on it. Schools have been disturbed every two years since 2005, we had elections in 2005 and then in 2008 in March.”
Senator Mlotshwa agreed that elections must not be foisted on the people.
“I think elections in a country should have a democratic outcome, that is going to be enjoyed by everyone in a country and I think elections must not be forced onto people. Instead people must demand to give their leaders a mandate and not vice versa,” said Mlotshwa.
Every 5 years
He said it was not ideal for the country to hold elections every two years, and pointed out that Zimbabwe had held five elections in 10 years – all accompanied by shocking violence and enormous human suffering. “We should first have a new Constitution for this country so that whoever is elected has a real mandate through a real process from the people’s wishes,” he said.
Senator Muchenje said the GNU had expired and it was time for elections. He claimed some people were afraid of losing the poll and are making efforts to stall the process. “As Zimbabwe, our principals came together and agreed to work together for two years only,” Muchenje said. “Now that the two years are over, I do not see why we are developing cold feet. The inclusive government was there to give way for elections. Let us go for elections as agreed in the GPA.”
Senator Gaule said the Constitution-making process must be completed first and elections held after so-called sanctions had been removed. He was heckled and Senator Gutu was almost thrown out of the house after suggesting Gaule was not using his brain. He was forced to withdraw his statement, which he did under protest.
Post published in: News