Mudenda Orders MPs To Stop Unnecessary Committee Trips

The Speaker of the National Assembly, Jacob Mudenda, has instructed Parliamentary Portfolio Committees to stop unnecessary trips that have left the National Assembly nearly empty during sittings, denying constituents proper representation.

Mudenda voiced his concern after noticing many empty seats on both the left and right benches in the August House, with numerous legislators away on committee trips. He said:

“I notice on both sides, on my right and on my left, there are a few members of Parliament. What is going on? Can I have an explanation from the Whips?”

ZANU PF Chief Whip Pupurai Togarepi informed the Speaker that three committees were away. He said:

“As per your directive in this House, there should not be more than two Committees at a moment a week, but sometimes they just go without even advising the Whips. I am supposed to concur with those who arrange these outreaches.

“When I came in, I realised there were a few members only to be told that these committees would have gone out without my knowledge.

“We need to sit down with the administration to ensure that we protect attendance.”

In response, Mudenda stressed that parliamentary attendance must take precedence. He said:

“While the public hearings are critical, and I do not know why they should arise after we have had public hearings on the Pre-Budget.

“There is no excuse why these committees should be out. Absolutely no excuse. The priority is for members to be here in the House as representatives of the people. You are the voice of the people who are not able to be in this august House.

“Now, if you are not there, how is their voice going to be heard? So, this must stop forthwith from next week. No committees should go out unless necessary.”

More: NewZimbabwe.com

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