Under the current constitution, the liberation war veterans are entitled to living allowances and other benefits, including the payment of school fees for their children. However, the veterans, led by their Secretary General Shadreck Makombe, continue to demand more.
At one time, Makombe announced benefits they wanted from Biti that totalled $18,000. Although Biti has been clear that the government could not finance such demands, the war veterans have continued to protest.
Speaking during the 2013 national budget consultative meeting, Zhanda, who is also the chairperson of the parliamentary portfolio committee on finance, said politics and issues of national importance could not be mixed.
“I am from Zanu (PF) and Biti is from MDC-T but when it comes to issues of national importance, we set that aside,” he said.
The outspoken MP added that Biti already did well to balance the revenue he gets with national demand.
“How do you expect Minister Biti with $2 billion to meet all the national demands which are over $20 billion? He has done great so far,” said Zhanda.
Post published in: News