Scholarship Opportunities

Part-Time Welder/ Fabricator (Harare)

Part-Time Repairs/ Faults Technicians (Harare)

Part-Time Solar Systems Installation Technician (Harare)

Part-Time Bookkeeper (Harare)

Business Development Officer (Harare)

Accountant

Deputy Librarian

ICT Technician (Bulawayo)

Library Assistants x2 (Harare)

Security Guards x3 (Harare)

Digital Campaign Officer (Harare)

Risk Analyst (Harare)

Furniture Designer (Bulawayo)

3 Wheeler Van Salesman (Bulawayo)

Regional Finance And Administration Assistant x4 (Harare, Mutare, Bulawayo & Gweru)

Waitresses x3 (Harare)

Homebased RGN (Harare)

DHIS2 Specialist (Tsholotsho)

Database Modeller (Bubi)

Provincial ICT Intern x3 (Tsholotsho)

Systems Support Specialist (Lupane)

Systems Engineer

Economic Strengthening and Household Officer x5

No Means No Officer (Bulawayo)

District Team Leader and Clinical Services and Mentorship Officer

Education, Parenting, and In-School Officers x5

GBV, RBM, and Child Protection Officers x5

HIV Prevention and ASRH Officer

Clinical Services and Mentorship Coordinator (Bulawayo)

GBV, Child Protection and Key Populations Coordinator (Bulawayo)

Strategic Information Officer (Bulawayo)

Data Officer (Bulawayo)

HIV Prevention and Adolescent Sexual Reproductive Health Coordinator (Bulawayo)

Branch Managers (Kadoma & Shurugwi)

Products & Research Officer

Lecturer/senior Lecturer/associate Professor/ Professor: Department Of Agribusiness And Management

Livestock Technician

Lecturer/ Senior Lecturer/ Associate Professor/ Professor: Soil Biology And Fertility

Lecturer/ Senior Lecturer/ Associate Professor/ Professor In Ndebele

Sports Director

Catering And Accommodation Manager

Internal Auditor

Chief Security Officer

Director, Information And Communication Technology

Attachees (Harare)

Assistant Shelter Coordinator (Harare)

Investigator (Harare)

Branch Manager (Chiredzi)

System Release Analyst x2

Bancassurance Agents

Strategic Information & Evaluation Interns x6

Medical Laboratory Scientist (Bindura)

SHE Officer (Shurugwi)

Personal Assistant to the CEO (Harare)

Trainee Parts Picker

Cook Or Chef (Harare)

Graduate Trainee: Management (Harare)

Fabricator/ Boiler Maker Class 1: Contract (Mutare)

Maintenance Fitter: Contract (Mutare )

Receptionist (Harare)

Driver: Confucius Institute

Business Intelligence Specialist (Harare)

Adolescent Girls and Young Women (AGYW) Mentor (Harare)

Positive Parenting Trainer (Harare)

Technical Officer: School and Community Linkages (Harare)

Network Technician

Telecommunications Technician

Graduate Trainee: Software Developer

Webmaster

Principal Accountants x2

Graduate Trainees x4

Assistant Accountants x2

Staff Development Fellows: Industrial Biotechnology Department x2

Field/ Greenhouse General Hand:Industrial Sciences And Technology Department x2

Staff Development Fellows: Biotechnology Department x3

Technician: Pharmaceutical Department (Post A)

Technician: Pharmaceutical Department (Post B)

Technical Assistant: Pharmaceutical Department

Lecturer/Senior Lecturer/Associate Professor/Professor: Chemical & Process Systems Engineering Department x5

Staff Development Fellows: Chemical & Process Systems Engineering x4

Staff Development Fellows  x3

Clerk x2

Local Product Support (Ngezi)

Field Service Technician

Planning Clerk (Ngezi)

Auto Electrician

Artisan Assistant Class 2

Graduate Trainees ICT x4

Student Interns ICT x4

Electrician

Farm Manager

Goat Manager

Quality Assurance Auditor

Business Development Managers x2

Monitoring and Evaluation Coordinator (Harare)

Motor Vehicle Mechanics Lecturer (Bulawayo)

Business Unit Manager: Croco Commercial (Harare)

Security Sergeant (full time)

Systems Support Analyst

ZANU PF’s Jacob Mudenda was re-elected unopposed as the Speaker of the National Assembly on Friday morning at the New Parliament Building at Mount Hampden in Harare.
Tsitsi Gezi, also of ZANU PF, was re-elected Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly unoppsed after opposition party CCC National Assembly members did not turn up for the election.
Zimbabwe has a bicameral Parliament that is divided into two separate houses, that is the National Assembly (Lower House) and the Senate (Upper House).
The two presiding officers took their oaths of office before Chief Justice Luke Malaba. The Parliament of Zimbabwe tweeted:
<blockquote>
ZANU PF has turned up in numbers ahead of today’s elections of Presiding officers. Contrary, the Opposition CCC has absconded from today’s election.
Honorable Advocate J.F.N Mudenda has been duly elected Speaker of Parliament, there being no other contestants.
Concomitantly, there being no other contestant, Hon Tsitsi Gezi has been duly nominated Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Makorokoto Amhlophe!
</blockquote>
ZANU PF commands a majority in the National Assembly after winning 136 seats against CCC’s 73 in Harmonised Elections held on 23 August 2023.
A by-election will be held in Gutu West after one of the candidates who had been nominated to contest in the constituency, Christopher Mutonhori Rwodzi, died a few weeks before the 23 August 2023 Harmonised Elections.
Following Rwodzi’s death, voters in the constituency only elected their preferred presidential candidate and councillors.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Jacob Mudenda Re-elected As Speaker Of Parliament

The opposition Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) has criticised Speaker of the National Assembly Jacob Mudenda for rejecting a proposal by the Public Accounts and the Budget, Finance, and Economic Development committees to investigate allegations raised in the Gold Mafia documentary which was premiered by Al Jazeera recently.
In a statement, CCC said Mudenda’s decision raises serious doubts about the Government’s commitment to accountability and transparency. CCC said:
<blockquote>
We strongly denounce the decision made by the Speaker of Parliament, Advocate Jacob Mudenda to prevent the parliamentary committees from investigating the overwhelming evidence presented in the #GoldMafia documentary.
The evidence suggests that there is massive corruption, looting, money laundering, and the smuggling of gold by the political elites and their close allies.
The Speaker’s decision to prevent proper investigation raises serious doubts about the regime’s commitment to accountability and transparency.
We demand swift action be taken to investigate the matter to ensure that those involved in such illegal activities are brought to justice.
</blockquote>
Mudenda told the two parliamentary committees that Parliament should allow the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), the central bank and the Police to conduct the investigations.
He said in reaching the decision, he was guided by the South African Government’s decision to task specialised agencies with investigating the gold smuggling and money laundering allegations raised in the Gold Mafia documentary.
“Gold Mafia” is a four-part investigation by Al Jazeera’s Investigative Unit (I-Unit) which exposed gold smuggling gangs in Southern Africa.
The gangs help criminals launder hundreds of millions of dollars, getting rich themselves while plundering their nations.
They use gold to turn dirty cash into clean, seemingly legitimate money for those with large amounts of unaccounted wealth.
The gangs do so by using a complex web of companies, counterfeit identities and fake documents.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Gold Mafia: CCC Chides Mudenda For Refusing To Grant Investigation Authority To Committees

Speaker of the National Assembly Jacob Mudenda has rejected a proposal by the Public Accounts and the Budget, Finance, and Economic Development committees to investigate allegations raised in the Gold Mafia documentary which was premiered by Al Jazeera recently.
In a memorandum addressed to the two parliamentary committees, Mudenda said Parliament should allow the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), the central bank and the Police to conduct the investigations.
He said in reaching the decision, he was guided by the South African Government’s decision to task specialised agencies with investigating the gold smuggling and money laundering allegations raised in the Gold Mafia documentary. Reads the memo:
<blockquote>
I wish to state from the outset that the matter is serious and of national importance.
However, it is pertinent to note that the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission and the RBZ have already started processes to investigate the matter.
In that vein, it would be improper for Parliament to embark on an inquiry on a matter that other arms of the State are investigating.
In addition, the matters are of a complex nature and may require extraterritorial visits due to the alleged involvement of foreign players.
In that regard, it is prudent to leave the investigations to specialised agencies like ZACC, and the Police are better placed to investigate matters.
Parliament will continue to monitor the investigations and will carry out its oversight role when the specialised agencies have completed their investigation.
In addition, the Portfolio Committee on Mines and Mining Development conducted an inquiry into Illicit Financial flows in the Mining Sector in the course of last year.
In reaching this decision I have also been guided by the stance taken by the South African Government which has deferred to specialised agencies regarding the same issues.
</blockquote>
“Gold Mafia” is a four-part investigation by Al Jazeera’s Investigative Unit (I-Unit) which exposed gold smuggling gangs in Southern Africa.
The gangs help criminals launder hundreds of millions of dollars, getting rich themselves while plundering their nations.
They use gold to turn dirty cash into clean, seemingly legitimate money for those with large amounts of unaccounted wealth.
The gangs do so by using a complex web of companies, counterfeit identities and fake documents.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Gold Mafia: Speaker Of Parliament Refuses To Grant Investigation Authority To Committees

Speaker of the National Assembly Jacob Mudenda has urged Members of Parliament to familiarise themselves with what the constitution says about the delimitation exercise and not be distracted by “sideshows”.
This comes after the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Nick Mangwana, and the Deputy Chief Secretary in the Office of the President and Cabinet George Charamba claimed that the report that was given to President Emmerson Mnangagwa by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) was not final.
The issue was then raised in the National Assembly during a question and answer session by Glen Norah MP Wellington Chikombo, reported <a href="https://openparly.com/delimitation-report-speaker-tells-parliament-do-not-listen-to-nick-mangwana-and-george-charamba/">Open Parly</a>.
Chikombo said the statements that were uttered by Mangwana and Charamba have caused a lot of polarisation, disharmony, and anxiety across the country.
He demanded that the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Ziyambi Ziyambi come through to elaborate to the House what the correct position is pertaining to the delimitation report process.
In response, Mudenda said”musateerere nyaya yemuma newspaper kana social media.” He added:
<blockquote>
Section 161 is very clear in terms of the processes. The report is tabled here in the House in Parliament, we scrutinize it and make our observations.
We then submit to the Head of State and Government in terms of Section 161. Within the specified 14 days, the Head of State must submit to ZEC, which was done.
After that ZEC will start on whatever contributions or analysis that were done by the relevant stakeholders.
They will look at them, make adjustments where it is possible and send those adjustments in a report to His Excellency.
Within 14 days, the President must gazette. What ZEC has said and done in that report is final.
So why do you want to listen to people who talk from the side shows… it does not matter, you must follow the Constitution.
… Do now worry about people who speak outside the Constitution.
</blockquote>

Delimitation Report: Do Not Listen To Mangwana And Charamba, Mudenda Tells MPs

The Speaker of the National Assembly Jacob Mudenda has said the new Parliament Building in Mount Hampden is still in the hands of the Chinese government and has not yet been handed over to Zimbabwe.
This week, President Emmerson Mnangagwa delivered the State of the Nation Address (SONA) and officially opened the 5th Session of the 9th Parliament of Zimbabwe from the new building.
Finance and Economic Development Minister Mthuli Ncube also presented the 2023 National Budget from the same building on Thursday.
Independent MP, Temba Mliswa (Norton) recently criticised Parliament over its failure to take legislators on a tour of the new Parliament building before the presentation of SONA and the national budget.
However, Mudenda told legislators in the National Assembly, that they had to ask for special permission to use the building for SONA and budget presentation from the Chinese government.
He said Parliament could not secure space at Rainbow Towers Hotel’s Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) for SONA. Said Mudenda:
<blockquote>
I also have to inform the House that the new Parliament building has not yet been officially handed over to the Government of the Republic of Zimbabwe.
A special request was made to hold the Official Opening of the Fifth Session of the 9th Parliament and State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the new Building, which was deemed a suitable venue for the occasion and the Chinese acceded to the request.
Honourable Members will be taken for a familiarisation tour once the handover has been done and Honourable Members will be informed accordingly.
</blockquote>
Mliswa also suggested that traditional leaders should be engaged to conduct rituals at the building before it is used. | <a href="https://openparly.com/new-parliament-still-owned-by-china-we-only-asked-to-use-it-for-sona-budget/">Open Parly</a>

"Zimbabwe's New Parliament Building Still Owned By China"

Speaker of the National Assembly, Jacob Mudenda, says the government should urgently modernise the taxation systems and also formalise the informal sector for accelerated economic transformation.
The World Bank estimates that Zimbabwe’s informal sector dominates 60 percent of the economy but the Vendors Initiative for Social and Economic Transformation (VISET) puts the figure at 92%.
Speaking at the 2023 Pre-budget seminar last Friday running under the theme “Leveraging on domestic resource mobilisation to accelerate Economic Transformation”, Mudenda said:
<blockquote>
Domestic resource mobilisation can be achieved if we spruce up our taxation regime through a sustainable digital taxation system.
This will ensure the maximisation of revenue collection thereby guaranteeing optimum resource mobilization through the taxation avenue.
Treasury should invest expeditiously in this area. In tandem, the formalization of the informal economic sector is long overdue.
Let us learn from Bolivia, Bangladesh, and Iran how these countries have exponentially formalized their informal economic sector.
At the moment, 60% of our economy is in the informal sector. If and when we formalize it, we are likely to increase the tax base and in so doing enhance our domestic resource mobilization for accelerated economic transformation.
</blockquote>
In 2015, and then again in 2021, the government held discussions to develop a formalisation policy for Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) but nothing has been done to date. | <a href="https://openparly.com/expedite-formalization-of-the-informal-sector-gvt-told/">Open Parly</a>

Mudenda Urges Govt To Expedite Formalisation Of Informal Sector

Civil society organisations (CSOs) have said it was now too late to call for the Zimbabweans in the diaspora to be allowed vote in the 2023 elections. 
They said the process is long and can’t be done within the limited space of time left.
In its first electoral reform series titled Diaspora Vote in Zimbabwe: Feasibility versus Desirability, civic society group Tutuma Zimbabwe said Zimbabwe has failed to amend effect constitutional and Electoral laws. 
The Tutuma Zimbabwe study said laws should be amended to ensure clear procedures on how citizens residing outside the country will be registered and how they will vote on the polling day.
Election Resource Centre programmes manager Solomon Bobosibunu told NewsDay that it was too late to call for the diaspora vote before next year’s elections. Bobosibunu said:
<blockquote>
It’s not justifiable, but practically it’s no longer possible. The timeframe left between now up to the time Zimbabwe can promulgate laws that will be used in an election means that we might be behind time. If all the laws are not enacted by January 2023, then ultimately those laws will not see the light of the day.
There is no longer sufficient time for amendments to the Electoral Act to be done; we lost a lot of time without even taking any action around the Diaspora vote. This should have been started around 2018-2019. Now we are only left with five months before 2023.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) chairperson Andrew Makoni said Parliament has until the end of the year 2022 to agree to electoral reforms and pass the necessary law. Makoni added:
<blockquote>
There is still time for the electoral reforms to be made. However, it will be up to Parliament to consider the diaspora vote or not. As Zesn we have been pushing for a law allowing all citizens to exercise their right to vote despite their location.
</blockquote>
Numerous voices have been calling for the diaspora vote with the ruling ZANU PF reluctant to push the agenda.
National Assembly speaker <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Jacob_Mudenda">Jacob Mudenda</a> is one of the unusual voices that recently <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/mudenda-says-zimbabwes-constitution-must-be-amended-to-allow-diaspora-vote/">pushed for citizens in the diaspora to vote</a>, a move that reportedly got him in trouble with his party.
<h2>More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/download/" rel="nofollow">Pindula News </a>is best enjoyed <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/download/?utm_source=PindulaArticles&amp;utm_campaign=DownloadLink">via the App. Download it here</a></h2>

"Too Late To Call For The Diaspora Vote Before 2023"- Election Watchdog

Zengeza West MP, Job Sikhala (CCC), has defended National Assembly Speaker Jacob Mudenda who has been criticised by his ZANU PF colleagues for saying Zimbabweans living outside the country should be allowed to vote.
Posting on Twitter this Saturday, Sikhala argued that there was nothing amiss for Mudenda to call for the diaspora vote since it is the role of Parliament to amend laws, in this case, the Electoral Act, to ensure that they are in sync with the National Constitution. <a href="https://twitter.com/JobSikhala1/status/1532960989662134272">Wrote Sikhala:</a>
<blockquote>
The pontification of @ZECzim’s Priscilla Chigumba has always been to blame the Legislature to put in place Electoral reforms that suit the holding of free and fair elections in Zimbabwe.
The initiative taken by the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Justice, Legal &amp; Parliamentary Affairs that culminated in the Kariba retreat last weekend should be seen in that light.
This is the retreat with other stakeholders that studied the pitfalls of our Electoral Act in the present form that various suggestions emerged to align the current Electoral Act with the constitution.
This is when the Speaker of Parliament Jacob Mudenda, an Advocate of law, he is, to suggest that no Zimbabwean should be left to participate in the affairs of his/her motherland and that diaspora vote should be allowed.
He said that the diaspora vote can only come via an amendment to the current constitution, to have an unambiguous provision to facilitate the voting of all Zimbabweans no matter their location.
Despite this contentious issue, there are a number of provisions in the current Electoral Act that needs to be changed to be in sync with the new constitution.
The current Electoral Act as it stands is at variance with the new constitution. It needs a complete overhaul and satisfies what needs to be included in the new Electoral Act.
There are other pertinent issues such as gender parity in all spheres of decision making that need to be in included in the new Electoral Act.
There was the recent amendment to the constitution that brought, the women and youth quotas in provincial Councils, local authorities and the Legislature. All of those need to reflect in the Electoral Act.
Zimbabweans of all walks of life must support the current efforts toward Electoral reforms that have been a subject of contention for a long time.
Parliament as the third arm of the state is the institution bestowed with that responsibility to bring sanity to our Electoral Act.
May all those with nefarious agendas allow Speaker Jacob Mudenda to bring agendas of national concern to Parliament.
Those who benefited through the electoral system that had no checks and balances must allow the Legislature to initiate its own agendas. The suggestion for the registration of political parties is new.
Why should we not be allowed to move the agenda to be in sync with other developed democracies in Africa such as Kenya, SA and many others that regulate the operation of political entities?
I urge all of you to rally behind the reform agenda that is being initiated by Parliament. 
Our country has had disputed Elections for far too long. We need an electoral framework that will give satisfaction to everyone who will participate in the elections.
I thank you.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h4>

Sikhala Defends Mudenda In Diaspora Vote Row

National Assembly Speaker, Jacob Mudenda, says any political parties that would be less than six months should be banned from contesting in elections.
Mudenda said banning political adventurers from contesting in elections will protect the electorate from being abused. He said:
<blockquote>
However, it is critical that the electoral law addresses the tendency of a plethora of political parties soon after the Presidential Proclamation to hold harmonized general elections.
In 2018, 133 political parties sprouted like the summer mushrooms to contest the elections. This spectre is uncommon in the electoral world.
Our electoral law must guard against such political misadventure which is likely to abuse the unsuspecting electorate.
The electoral law should insist on bona fide parties that have authentic credentials and have at least been founded six months before the election date.
What more of the 23 candidates who aspired to contest for the Presidential Office in 2018!
Surely this high office demands candidates of serious conviction and stature and not the trial-and-error opportunists.
The envisaged electoral law should address this political leadership lacuna among the Presidential aspirants.
Such a screening process would ensure that the ZEC allocated funding will not be unnecessarily crowded out.
More than 20 parties have emerged over the past few months, all intending to contest in 2023. Some of the political parties are based outside the country.
</blockquote>
Ironically, the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), which was formed less than three months before the 26 March by-elections, won the majority of the parliamentary and council seats.
<h4>More: <a href="https://openparly.com/index.php/2022/06/03/political-chancers-must-be-blocked-from-2023-elections-says-mudenda/">OpenParly</a></h4>

Mudenda Wants "Political Chancers" Blocked From 2023 Elections

Human rights activists say National Assembly Speaker, Jacob Mudenda, has exposed ZANU PF’s plan to use <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Gukurahundi">Gukurahundi</a> as a campaign gimmick ahead of the 2023 elections.
This comes after Mudenda on Wednesday urged the National Peace and Reconciliation Commission (NPRC) to bring closure to the Gukurahundi issue before the 2023 elections.
However, human rights activist, Dumisani Nkomo, said there is no political will to address Gukurahundi. He said:
<blockquote>
NPRC has been in place for almost 10 years and has done nothing to address Gukurahundi. What will make it address it now?
</blockquote>
Ibhetshu LikaZulu co-ordinator Mbuso Fuzwayo said that the Government is not serious about resolving the matter and is just playing with people’s emotions. Said Fuzwayo:
<blockquote>
One minute they talk about chiefs addressing it, while we are looking at chiefs, they now talk about the commission.
It clearly tells you they are just playing with people’s emotions, buying time and giving people false hope.
Since 2018, has Parliament ever received a report from the commission? He can’t talk about them resolving the genocide in a year when in four years they have not done anything.
</blockquote>
Human rights advocate Effie Ncube said there are no shortcuts to resolving Gukurahundi. He said:
<blockquote>
Gukurahundi genocide cannot be addressed in the remaining few months before the elections.
Not only do perpetrators lack the political will to succeed, but also they are just seeking political campaign capital and not truth and justice which are the goals of victims and survivors.
The resolution of the Gukurahundi genocide will take far longer than the sham shortcut to nowhere that the government has in mind.
Genuine processes take years of digging for the truth and dispensing justice.
</blockquote>
Gukurahundi is a term used to refer to the military operation in Matabeleland and Midlands in the 1980s which resulted in the deaths of an estimated 20 000 Ndebele people.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/05/mudenda-rapped-over-gukurahundi-election-project/">NewsDay</a></h4>

"No Shortcuts To Resolving Gukurahundi Matter"

National Assembly Speaker, Jacob Mudenda, has urged the National Peace and Reconciliation Commission (NPRC) to bring closure to the Gukurahundi issue before the 2023 elections.
Gukurahundi is a term used to refer to a military operation in Matabeleland and Midlands in the 1980s which resulted in the death of an estimated 20 000 Ndebele people.
Addressing the NPRC Commissioners during their induction on the role and functions of Parliament, Mudenda said the NPRC’s responsibility is to build national consensus for the peaceful resolution of human conflict. He said:
<blockquote>
Parliament is desirous to see how the NPRC leverages its constitutional mandate vis-à-vis the salutary efforts by the Council of Chiefs, as guided by His Excellency, the President, Emmerson Mnangagwa, in bringing closure to the Gukurahundi unfortunate historical antecedent before the 2023 harmonized elections.
It is axiomatic to note that the Constitution, the NPRC Act, and the NPRC Regulations impose an onerous responsibility in building national consensus, whose bedrock ought to be sustainable human conflict and solutions which must emanate from the co-existential culture of tolerance and respect for the other human dignity.
</blockquote>
In August last year, President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced that chiefs will take a lead in resolving the issue of Gukurahundi, but not much has been done.
In recent days, political commentators have expressed doubt over the Government’s willingness to address the Gukurahundi issue after it emerged that Zimbabwe harboured Protais Mpiranya for four years before his death and burial in Harare in 2006.
Mpiranya, also known as Sambao Ndume, was a Rwandan war criminal who was internationally wanted for his alleged role in the genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda in 1994 but was found dead and buried in Harare in 2022 by United Nations investigators.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/mudenda-tells-nprc-to-address-gukurahundi-before-2023-election/">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

Mudenda Challenges NPRC To Address Gukurahundi Before 2023 Elections

National Assembly Speaker Jacob Mudenda said that current laws that deal with those found guilty of corruption are too lenient and an impediment in the fight against graft.
Mudenda made the remarks while addressing a capacity-building workshop on corruption organised by the African Parliamentary Network against Corruption (APNAC) in Bulawayo last week. He said:
<blockquote>
Zimbabwe’s sentencing regime for persons convicted of corruption is considered too lenient because of the option of a fine while the lack of legislation governing conflict of interest for civil servants needs more scrutiny.
I must commend ZACC (Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Authority) and other anti-corruption agencies for the work they are doing to expose, combat and eradicate corruption and the abuse of power by those holding political and public office.
</blockquote>
Mudenda also noted that ZACC is struggling to fight corruption, with some high profile corrupt figures going scot-free. Said Mudenda:
<blockquote>
However, Zacc has been found wanting in a number of areas which include the “catch and release” as well as the lack of “teeth” to prosecute high profile figures allegedly caught up in corrupt activities.
</blockquote>
Mudenda, however, commended Auditor-General (Mildred Chiri) for exposing the mismanagement of public resources without fear or favour.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/04/penalties-for-corruption-too-lenient-mudenda/">NewsDay</a></h4>

Mudenda Bemoans Lenient Penalties For Corruption

Jacob Mudenda, the National Assembly Speaker, has set a committee that will discuss whether Members of Parliament can wear yellow clothes in the House or not.
The decision came after CCC legislators came to the House for their swearing-in ceremony wearing yellow neckties, while Judith Tobaiwa was putting on a yellow blazer.
Buhera South legislator Joseph Chinotimba (ZANU PF) protested that the CCC legislators were wearing party regalia in the House.
However, Harare East MP, Tendai Biti, argued that there was no provision for colours on the Parliament Standing Rules and Orders.
In his point of privilege, Biti argued that the Parliament Standing Rules and Orders require legislators to dress with dignity and with decorum, but did not mention colours. He said:
<blockquote>
The issue of a necktie is one of the implicit requirements but there is no colour ascribed to a necktie.
So, an ordinary Member has got a constitutional right to put on a necktie of his or her own choice, which is why in this august House, as I speak to you, there are different neckties.
Some have got red, some have green, some blue and some yellow. It is their constitutional right. The only test Honourable Speaker Sir, of how a member dress is decorum.
Is he dressed sufficiently such that he does not bring Parliament into disrepute? Those of us who have chosen to put on yellow neckties are in fact enhancing the dignity of Parliament because we are smartly dressed.
</blockquote>
Responding to Biti, Mudenda said he was setting a committee to look at the matter and if it fails to find a resolution, the issue will be taken to the Committee on Standing Rules and Orders. Said Mudenda:
<blockquote>
Thank you Honourable Biti. You make your point from a position of sobriety and you lose nothing, alright.
I have been checking here on the provisions of the Standing Rules and Orders and taking into account what Honourable Biti has raised.
I shall rule as follows: That there be a combined meeting of representatives from the government side led by the leader of government business, the chief whip and one other.
From this side, we get another three so that at the end of the session, we look closely at the Standing Orders and if we cannot come up with a resolution, I shall rely on the advice of that Committee on whether the matter should proceed to the Committee on Standing Rules and Orders for final arbitration.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://openparly.com/index.php/2022/04/06/parliament-sets-committee-to-discuss-chamisas-colours/">Open Parly</a></h4>

Parliament Sets Committee To Discuss CCC Colours

Security personnel at Parliament on Wednesday attempted to block CCC MPs led by Tendai Biti from entering the august House for wearing yellow ties.
This came after National Assembly Speaker Jacob Mudenda on Tuesday directed CCC legislators not to wear anything yellow following protests by ZANU PF legislators.
Yesterday, Mudenda revealed that CCC attire would be investigated to establish if it did not violate Parliament’s Standing Rules and Orders. He said:
<blockquote>
I have been checking on the provisions of standing orders, I shall rule as follows, there should be a meeting of representatives from the government side led by the leader of government business (Ziyambi Ziyambi) and the ZANU PF chief whip (Pupurai Togarepi) and from the other side, we get a representative so that we look closely at the standing orders and come up with a conclusion.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/04/chaos-as-parliament-bans-ccc-yellow/">NewsDay</a></h4>

CCC MP's Yellow Ties Cause Commotion At Parliament

National Assembly Speaker Jacob Mudenda on Tuesday ordered Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) MPs not to wear yellow in Parliament.
The order came after Buhera South MP Joseph Chinotimba (ZANU PF) protested that some CCC MPs were wearing party symbols.
The CCC MPs dressed formally, but some were wearing yellow neck-ties, shirts, tops and blazers. Said Mudenda:
<blockquote>
From tomorrow, can Honourable Members adhere to the dress code and not be seen in colours that are aligned to party affiliation. Please be advised accordingly.
</blockquote>
According to ZimLive, Harare East MP Tendai Biti, wore a striped yellow and navy-blue tie while Prince Dubeko Sibanda (Binga North), Amos Chibaya (Mkoba), Prosper Mutseyami (Chikanga-Dangamvura), Chalton Hwende (Kuwadzana East) and Settlement Chikwinya (Mbizo) all wore yellow ties.
Judith Tobaiwa (Kwekwe Central) and Sichelesile Mahlangu (Pumula) wore yellow blazers.
Mudenda’s directive riled CCC MPs, who vowed to wear colours of their choice as long as it was not party regalia. Speaking outside parliament, Biti, who is also CCC deputy president, said:
<blockquote>
I can understand if the Speaker rules against putting on yellow T-Shirts but if I put on a yellow shirt, a formal business shirt or a yellow tie, I’m not breaching any law.
I hope he doesn’t put us in a position where there’s an unnecessary collision, and that there is litigation and civil war in that House.
A necktie or shirt is not party regalia. If we come wearing Zambias, it’s a different thing but I don’t think anyone has an intention to do that.
There’s no law in the world anywhere that proscribes anyone from putting on a necktie of his or her own choice.
</blockquote>
Mutseyami said what Mudenda suggested is impractical since green, yellow, black and red are among the colours that are used by different political parties. He said:
<blockquote>
Is what the Speaker is saying lawful, or he’s just telling us what’s in his head? This is not Mudenda’s House, it’s a national House.
We were not voted for by Mudenda but by the people. We’re not here out of his compassion.
In any case, no one is quite sure which colour he says belongs to a political party.
In this country, there are political parties that use green, yellow, black and red.
I don’t know which of those colours is a party colour, and which one is not.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/2022/04/05/mudenda-draws-ccc-fury-after-ordering-mps-not-to-wear-yellow/">ZimLive</a></h4>

Parliament Speaker Orders MP Not To Wear Yellows

United States Deputy Chief of Mission to Zimbabwe, Thomas Hastings, Wednesday said his country would closely follow Zimbabwe’s March 26 by-elections including the preparations and campaigns.
Hastings told journalists that the by-elections were pivotal for the promotion of democracy. Hastings made the remarks after paying a courtesy call to the Speaker of the National Assembly Jacob Mudenda. He said after the closed-door meeting:
<blockquote>
My government is pleased that the by-elections are now going to take place. They were delayed for quite some time because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but we are pleased to see that they are taking place. Democratic conditions of free and fair elections are a key priority for governments all over the world.
</blockquote>
In September last year, the United States (US) Embassy in Harare asked the government of Zimbabwe <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/09/23/us-when-will-the-zimbabwean-government-resume-by-elections/">when it was going to resume by-elections</a> after the elections had been suspended indefinitely over the prevalence of the coronavirus. An article posted by Pindula News back then read:
<blockquote>
When will the Zimbabwean government resume by-elections? Long-standing parliamentary vacancies have left over 754,000 voters in 26 constituencies without elected representation. Only by-elections will restore these citizens’ rights to representation. 
Many countries have held elections despite the pandemic, including Zambia, South Africa, Malawi, and the United States, demonstrating that COVID-safe elections are possible. We are confident Zimbabwe can do the same. 
</blockquote>
Back then, <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/us-embassy-at-it-again/">The Herald, a state-run paper, quoted</a> <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/us-embassy-at-it-again/">some political analysts</a> as criticising the US’s “behaviour of interfering in the affairs of other sovereign states.”
<h2>More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

The United States Will Closely Follow Zimbabwe’s March 26 By-elections

Parliament has raised concern over unauthorised expenditure by the government amounting to $6.8 billion, describing it as an “unacceptable anomaly”. 
Jacob Mudenda, the speaker of Parliament, yesterday told a pre-budget seminar for legislators in Victoria Falls that the Finance ministry must regularise the expenditure as a matter of urgency. He said:
<blockquote>
This amount constitutes a supplementary budget, which must follow the normal budget approval process by Parliament.
I, therefore, urge the minister of Finance and Economic Development to promptly engage Parliament and regularise this unacceptable fiscal anomaly. 
I further demand strict adherence to the dictates of the constitution, the Finance Act, the Appropriation Act, the Public Finance Management Act and any other legislation that attempt to ensure value for money in the budgetary processes of our country.
</blockquote>
Auditor-general Mildred Chiri, in reports released in July, said the excess expenditure was done in violation of the constitution.
 MDC Alliance co-vice President, <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/10/07/treasury-use-us10-6-billion-outside-the-budget-without-parliament-approval-biti/">Tendai Biti, who used to chair the Parliament’s Public Accounts Portfolio (PAC) has been vocal over the government’s unauthorised expenditure.</a>
Advocate Mudenda also said they were also worried that in his mid-term fiscal review, Finance minister Mthuli Ncube spoke of a $570 million budget surplus for the half-year ending June 2021 when most line ministries and government departments had received allocations far below the 50% threshold of the full-year budget appropriations, including Parliament. 
Mudenda urged MPs to ensure timeous disbursement of the budgeted funds in terms of Section 119 of the constitution. 
More: <a href="https://thestandard.newsday.co.zw/2021/10/24/6-8bn-govt-funds-saga-raises-dust/">The Standard</a>

Parliament Concerned By Government's Unauthorised Expenditure Of $6.8 Billion

Buhera South legislator, Mr Joseph Chinotimba has lamented over government workers’ salaries which he said were not sustainable when the government claims to have a surplus.
Chinotimba made the remarks while speaking in the National Assembly saying it was surprising that the government is paying workers paltry salaries and yet there was a surplus. He said:
<blockquote>_The salaries are inadequate, especially for those in rural areas. The current exchange rate is US$1 to ZW$130 and that is the rate that is being used by most shops, except shops such as OK who do not use the black-market rate.  Such shops require that you pay what they charge. It is a ‘take it or leave it’ game._
_…We expect immediate action to be taken on the matter, even if it means Minister Mthuli Ncube to be called into the House to answer questions and to address the matter. At one time, Honourable Mthuli Ncube said that the government has a surplus. How can you talk of surplus when the standard of living for the majority has not improved and they are earning peanuts?_</blockquote>
Chinotimba said it was disheartening that professions in the civil service – teachers, police, armed forces, health sector and so on, were earning less than security guards.
He emphasised the role teachers are playing in society saying everyone went through their hands, including “you Honourable Speaker” and “the President to be where he is today.”
Chinotimba’s remarks come after civil servants have scoffed at the government’s meagre 25% salary increment last month which saw them receiving between $13 300 and $17 000 (US$156 and US$200).
They are demanding a restoration of their 2018 salaries when they earned about US$500.

<ul>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/04/21/teachers-scoff-at-25-salary-increment/">Teachers Scoff At 25% Salary Increment</a></li>
<li class="entry-title">
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/02/06/covid-19-exposed-fakeness-of-mthulis-surplus-opinion/">COVID-19 Exposed Fakeness Of Mthuli’s Surplus – OPINION</a>
</li>
<li class="entry-title">
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/07/18/list-8-times-mthuli-ncube-proclaimed-a-budget-surplus-since-he-became-the-treasury-boss/">LIST: 8 Times Mthuli Ncube Proclaimed A Budget Surplus Since He Became The Treasury Boss</a>
</li>
<li class="entry-title">
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/08/17/watch-finance-secretary-explains-what-happened-to-budget-surpluses/">WATCH: Finance Secretary Explains What Happened To Budget Surpluses</a>
</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>; <a href="https://openparly.com/index.php/2021/05/05/chinotimba-questions-mthuli-ncubes-surplus/">Open Parly</a>

Chinotimba Laments Over Workers' Salaries, Critiques Ncube's Surplus Claims

The Speaker of Parliament, Advocate Jacob Mudenda has spoken on the constitutionality of recalls of members of parliament (MPs) following the recall of several MDC-T members from Parliament.
He made the remarks while presenting a lecture at the Zimbabwe Defence University on the Parliament’s oversight role and contribution to national security. He said:
<blockquote>Equally, if a Member of Parliament ceases to be a member of the sponsoring political party, he or she is recalled from Parliament by that Party in terms of section 129(1)(k) of the Constitution. During the life of the Eighth and Ninth Parliament, both ZANU PF and MDC-T invoked these provisions to cause the expulsion of their Members of Parliament. More than 40 Members of Parliament fell victim to this constitutional provision and consequently by-elections, where applicable, would be held to fill up the vacancies that arose in the National Assembly and the Senate.
Here a number of people have been saying that the speaker of parliament of president of the senate, before they read the letter of recall must find out whether that letter has merit or some demerits. It is not the responsibility of the Speaker to inquire into the merits or demerits of the letter, we follow the constitution. And an impression is given that the presiding officers expel members of parliament is misdirected…
At strategic levels, there is a need to match the laws and strategic operational plans with the requisite financial resources to enable the realisation of the national security vision and mission. In this regard, section 305 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe allocates exclusive powers to Parliament to appropriate resources for deployment to various state institutions. Equally, Parliament itself must be well resourced in order to exercise robust oversight over all state institutions and agencies in the interest of national security.</blockquote>
He urged security institutions to maintain a high degree of vigilance to guarantee national security.
Mudenda speaks as opposition MDC-T has since last year been recalling rival MDC Alliance’s MPs and councillors arguing that they had ceased to be members of the party that made them attain those posts.
While some are questioning the constitutionality of the recalls, MDC Alliance claims they are instigated by the ruling ZANU PF in a bid to cripple the opposition in the country. ZANU PF denies the allegations.
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a> <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/speaker-of-the-national-assembly-clarifies-recall-process/">ZBC News</a>

Speaker Of Parliament Speaks On Constitutionality Of Recalls

The Speaker of Parliament, Advocate Jacob Mudenda has said unproductive Parliamentary Committee Chairpersons will be ejected from their posts.
Advocate Mudenda was responding to a recommendation by Norton legislator, Temba Mliswa which said action should be taken to ensure that the chairs executed their duties and responsibilities.
Mliswa likened Mudenda to a driver who should make sure his vehicle was in good condition. He added:
<blockquote>I implore your good office to task the chief whips to look at the capacity (of MPs) and to look at the work. The reports which come here are not that strong.
The recommendations which other committees have done before have not been implemented.
It seems some chairpersons have no confidence to discharge their duties according to the Standing Rules and Orders.
I am wondering, with many things which are happening right now, our committees seem not to be vibrant.
A lot is happening, and I am wondering what is really happening that is stopping them from discharging their duties.</blockquote>
Mudenda revealed that three unproductive Parliamentary chairpersons had been confronted over the matter and cautioned that they might be ejected.
<blockquote>I am aware honourable Mliswa of three chairpersons that have not been up to scratch and they have been told. If they do not improve, then we stand them down…
I can assure you, we have identified three. If they do not improve, we shall stand them down because they would not be doing good service for parliament, the electorate and the party that proposed them to be chairpersons accordingly.</blockquote>
He commended Mliswa for having done a good job during his tenure as committee chairperson. Mliswa was forced to dump the post following reports that he had engaged in underhand dealings.
Mudenda expressed his desire to see Mliswa coming back urging the independent legislator to be “reformed so that you do not suffer the same exigencies that occurred resulting in your stepping down, but you were one of the good chairpersons.”
Mudenda singled out education committee chair Priscilla Misihairabwi-Mushonga as one of the most competent and hardworking chairpersons.
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/parliament-to-axe-non-performing-committee-chairs/">NewZimbabwe</a>

We Identified Unproductive Parliamentary Chairs Who Might Be Ejected - Mudenda

8 Ministers including the country’s 2 Vice Presidents reportedly snubbed this week’s parliamentary sitting which was supposed to be a question and answer session over COVID-19 concerns, Newsday reports.
Speaker of the Parliament Jacob Mudenda said he had received apologies from:
<blockquote>Hon Rtd General Dr Constantino D N Chiwenga, Hon Kembo C D Mohadi, Hon Oppah C Z Muchinguri-Kashiri, Hon July Moyo, Hon Ziyambi Ziyambi, Hon Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu and Hon Cain Mathema</blockquote>
Norton MP Temba Mliswa was reportedly livid and accused the ministers of disrespecting the house given the safety measures that had been put in place to ensure COVID-19 safety measures were observed. Mudenda in response however said some ministers had connected virtually
<blockquote>Some of those ministers who are not here are connecting virtually. I think what we need to do, Hon Mliswa, is to actually indicate that they should be here in the House and not to connect virtually, but my calculation is that, the honourable ministers are present, the Clerk is showing me. But we need to write to them that they should be here in person accordingly.</blockquote>
Sources that observed the proceedings were adamant that the ministers were still fearful of the pandemic that claimed 3 ministers last month.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/02/ministers-snub-parly/">NewsDay </a>

Ministers Snub Parly Over COVID-19 Fears - Report

National Assembly Speaker Jacob Mudenda on Wednesday upbraided Monica Mutsvangwa, the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services over the absence of both state and private media during sitting.
Mudenda raised the issue of the absence of the Fourth Estate from Parliament during the question-and-answer session.
Mutsvangwa said she was not aware of journalists’ whereabouts and directed Mudenda to his clerks within the National Assembly.
However, Mudenda reminded the minister of the importance of media coverage on proceedings in the House. He said:
<blockquote>Minister, today is members’ day just like it is tomorrow Thursday.
The message from this House and the Senate must go to the people through the media. We are not quite happy with the sluggish manner in which ZBC in particular covers this House and the Senate.
The message must go out there; policy issues from honourable ministers must go out there and can only do so through the media, both public and private.
This is the importance of the fourth estate in any country.</blockquote>
Parliament resumed business on Tuesday but members of the media who had turned up to cover proceedings were turned away.
The journalists were told to follow proceedings through parliament’s Zoom platform due to the coronavirus restrictions.
On Wednesday, reporters were told that a negative COVID-19 certificate was a pre-requisite for getting into the parliament building.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/mudenda-roasts-mutsvangwa-over-media-ban-in-parliament/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

Mudenda Upbraids Infor. Minister Over Media Ban In Parliament

The Speaker of Parliament, Advocate Jacob Mudenda has said Parliament is failing to fully execute its duties and responsibilities due to underfunding.
He proposed that from 2021 going forward, the institution should be adequately funded to enable it to diligently carry out its constitutional duties.
Speaking during a Parliament of Zimbabwe post-budget seminar in Harare following the 2021 budget presentation by the Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Professor Mthuli Ncube, Mudenda pointed out that Parliament’s budget allocation of US$89 million for 2021 registered a 28% decline compared to US$124 million allocated in this year. He added:
<blockquote>I want us all to reflect back and take note of our deliberations during the past few years where, as Parliament, we called for complete separation of budgetary allocations within the different organs of government so as not to compromise the oversight role of Parliament.
In other jurisdictions, Parliament’s budget is not even debated or amended. It is just adopted as it is. Therefore, in order for Parliament as an oversight institution to accomplish its mandate effectively and efficiently during the year 2021 going forward, it is crucial that it be adequately funded so that it is able to fulfil its constitutional mandate consummately.</blockquote>
Mudenda also said called for the capacitation of the Auditor-General’s office saying it plays an essential role in curbing corruption in the country, only if it has the capacity to do so.
He also said that corruption undermines the trust between the citizens and the State adding that although the issue was common across jurisdictions, how communities dealt with it was different.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2020/12/mudenda-bemoans-parly-budgetary-allocation/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">NewsDay</a>

Mudenda Says Parliament Is Underfunded

Speaker of the National Assembly (Lower House of Parliament), Jacob Mudenda has opened up on how he convinced late former president Robert Mugabe to resign with dignity.
Mugabe resigned on 21 November 2017, a few days after he was put under house arrest by the military and citizens were encouraged to demonstrate in favour of his removal from office.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting of media practitioners and the civil society organisations in Bulawayo on Tuesday, Mudenda claimed to have phoned Mugabe and told him to leave office without suffering the humiliation of being impeached. Said Mudenda:
<blockquote>I was in conversation with the President (Mugabe) and advised him that ‘why don’t you resign and stop this impeachment because you will not win it’.
We spoke over the phone because I did not want him to suffer the consequences of impeachment where he was going to appear before a Parliamentary committee to answer to charges; he could not have escaped.
Out of respect, I told him not to allow himself to be humiliated through that. I said do not allow yourself to go through this damming process of impeachment. He said ‘I will come back to you’ and it was around 1.05 PM.
I think he consulted his lawyers and he phoned back and said ‘Honourable Speaker, I agree with you and I am going to write a letter and it will be delivered where the impeachment process is taking place’.
I never doubted his signature because I knew it very well. I read the letter and that killed the impeachment process and the President was free to receive all his benefits and those of the First Family.
Unfortunately, he had fallen ill and he battled that cancer, but couldn’t conquer it.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/the-phone-call-that-led-to-bobs-resignation/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Chronicle</a></h4>

I Told Mugabe To Go And He Complied - Mudenda

On Wednesday 4th November, the Speaker of Parliament Advocate Jacob Mudenda announced the postponement of the 2021 Pre-Budget Seminar which was initially scheduled for 5th to 7th November until 19th to 21st November 2020.
Mudenda explained that the postponement was to allow for the finalization of the process of crafting the First National Development Strategy (2021-2025), for which the 2021 National Budget will be a crafting tool.
Meanwhile,<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/cabinet-approves-nds-1-economic-blueprint/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> Cabinet yesterday approved the First National Development Strategy (NDS)</a> economic blueprint that will stretch from 2021 to 2025.
The economic blueprint outlines the policies, legal and institutional reforms, programmes and projects, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa said.
Pre-budget seminars provide a platform for the Executive to solicit the input of lawmakers during the formulation of the National Budget.
Previous seminars were marred with controversy with the 2017 pre-budget briefing seminar temporarily adjourned after legislators demanded the payment of their outstanding sitting allowances and other benefits before the business of the day could commence.
Some analysts have always criticised legislators for being “selfish” and not putting national interests first by opting to have the seminars in flashy resort towns when they can be held in Town Halls for a “reasonable fee.”
The majority of Zimbabweans expect the budget to address issues such as starvation, the collapsed health sector, the staggering agriculture sector and the collapsed economy to improve living standards.
More: Veritas Zimbabwe

Pre-Budget Seminar Set For 19-21 November

Speaker of Parliament, Jacob Mudenda has said civic organisations are free to petition the government on various issues but some of them are getting money from Western-funded organisations to effect illegal regime change, something that he said will not happen.
Mudenda made the remarks during a stakeholder meeting with civic society organisations and the media at the Chinhoyi University of Technology (CUT) last week. He said:
<blockquote>Right now we are receiving a number of petitions, which speak to our daily lives.
However, some organisations that are giving out money to people in Zimbabwe and Africa to effect regime change are also there.
Regime change cannot come through petitions but only through voting.</blockquote>
Mudenda cautioned those petitioning the Parliament to avoid using foul and insulting language, to include their names and organisations they are representing and also disclose their source of funds. Said Mudenda:
<blockquote>As Parliament, we will protect whoever sends petition, but they have to be objective and factual.</blockquote>
Mudenda added that the Clerk of Parliament receives petitions from citizens and then writes to leaders of the two houses (National Assembly and Senate) who in turn deliberate on the issues.
However, petitions whose issues were before the courts would not be entertained by the Speaker of Parliament and the Senate President, Mudenda added.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/petitions-wont-remove-govt-mudenda/">The Herald</a></h4>

Regime Change Won't Be Achieved Through Petitions - Mudenda

The Parliament Of Zimbabwe has nullified SI 225A of 2020 which was used by the <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/vp-chiwenga-bans-holding-of-by-elections/">Health Ministry to ban all pending by-elections </a> The matter came to light on Twitter after Pedzisayi Ruhanya Tweeted that:
<blockquote><a data-focusable="true" dir="ltr" href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hashtag_click" role="link">#BREAKING</a>: The speaker of Parliament Jacob Mudenda has announced that SI 225A/2020, effected to ban by-elections by Gen Chiwenga, has been declared unconstitutional by the Parliamentary Legal Committee. These are clear contradictions by ZANU PF. How do you ban elections!!
Speaker of Parliament Jacob Mudenda’s announcement that SI 225A/2020, effected to ban by-elections by Gen Chiwenga, has been declared unconstitutional by the Parliamentary Legal Committee doesn’t mean there is rule of law in Zimbabwe. We must dig deeper and avoid being naive!</blockquote>
This is a developing story we will update it as new details emerge.
Source: <a href="https://twitter.com/PedzisaiRuhanya/status/1316746494104535040">Pedzisayi Ruhanya Twitter </a>

JUST IN: Parly Nullifies SI 225A Of 2020 Which Bans By-Elections

Opposition MDC Alliance legislators on Tuesday confronted the speaker of the National Assembly, Advocate Jacob Mudenda over the continued detention of Harare West legislator Joana Mamombe.
Mamombe was arrested and incarcerated together with Cecilia Chimbiri and Netsai Marova for faking their abduction in May this year.
The 27-year-old was <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/09/24/just-in-joanna-mamombe-placed-under-harare-remand-prison-superintended-s-care-for-2-weeks/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">recently placed under the care of the superintendent</a> at Harare Remand Prison for 2 weeks to assess her mental problem to stand trial as the state indicated that it doubted that she indeed had mental issues.
MDC Alliance vice president Lynette Karenyi told advocate Mudenda that Mamombe’s treatment was tantamount to inhumane treatment. She said:
<blockquote>I have realised that the issue of victimisation and the subjection to torture is also one of the key problems whereby women are not going to be encouraged to stand up to be in local government, to be in Parliament.
Honourable Speaker, we are encouraging young women to be Members of Parliament and we have got one of our members of Parliament, Honourable Joanna Mamombe.
May I also draw your attention on the issue of the right to health, Honourable Speaker, we are encouraging young women to be Members of Parliament and we have got one of our Members of Parliament, Honourable Joanna Mamombe…</blockquote>
The speaker, however, dismissed the matter ordering Karenyi-Kore to raise her issue through a motion.
Zengeza West legislator Job Sikhala came to Karenyi-Kore’s defence saying she was raising an issue concerning one of the members of Parliament, he was too ordered to take his seat.
The state dismisses reports that government critics are being kidnapped and tortured by suspected state security forces saying the alleged abductions are being stage-managed to soil the government’s image.
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/mdc-mps-confront-speaker-over-mamombes-incarceration/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">New Zimbabwe</a>

MDC MPs Approach Speaker Over Mamombe's Detention

Speaker Of Parliament Jacob Mudenda has said he does not enjoy recalling MPs from parliament and emphasised that he recalls MPs only because he is following the constitution, Newsday reports.
Mudenda made these remarks in Mutare at a Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Mines Mining Development meeting on Thursday. Possibly addressing rumours and accusations from the MDC Alliance that he is working with the Khupe led faction to decimate the Nelson Chamisa led party, Mudenda said:
<blockquote>I don’t enjoy reading recall letters in Parliament. It is not within me to read that, but I am just following the Constitution, I think you get me.</blockquote>
The MDC T has recalled 21 legislators since the Supreme Court ruling that declared that Khupe was the legitimate MDC T leader.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2020/07/mapezas-advice-to-nakamba/">Newsday </a>

Mudenda Claims He Doesnt Enjoy Recalling MPs From Parly

Speaker of the National Assembly Jacob Mudenda has warned MDC Alliance (MDCA) legislators who are boycotting Parliament saying the Standing Rules and Orders will soon be invoked.
Mudenda issued the warning on Tuesday after only four MPs from the MDCA attended the Parliamentary sitting, with the rest staying away. He said:
<blockquote>The missing MPs must be reminded that they took the oath of office and promised to represent their constituencies.
They must respect the country’s laws. It is not the responsibility of the chair to persuade them to come to Parliament.
Parliament has Standing Rules and Orders which can be invoked. It is not the responsibility of the Speaker to ask the party to appoint its Chief Whip.
Parliament process will continue nonetheless.</blockquote>
The warning followed a request by outspoken Norton legislator, Temba Mliswa (Independent) that Mudenda speedily resolves the boycott stance taken by MDC Alliance MPs, saying ruling ZANU PF legislators are too weak to take on cabinet ministers during Parliament’s question and answer sessions.
– Daily News –

Mudenda Warns MDCA MPs Over Parly Boycott

Jacob Mudenda Latest News

Latest Jobs