Reports have emerged that the police in Zimbabwe are preventing Members of Parliament (MPs) from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) from holding feedback meetings with their constituents, causing concern among opposition parties as the country approaches the 2023 general elections. These meetings, which are a vital part of MPs’ responsibilities, have been banned since last year, with the police citing the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (MOPA). The meetings provide an opportunity for MPs to update their constituents on parliamentary proceedings and government programs, which is crucial for incumbents who are seeking re-election.
According to reliable sources within the ruling Zanu PF party and the government, the ban on feedback meetings is part of a wider plot to deny the opposition MPs the advantage of incumbency before Parliament is dissolved. Zanu PF MPs, however, are reportedly holding meetings and campaigns without any disturbances, even in opposition-held constituencies.
The Chief Whip of the CCC in Parliament, Prosper Mutseyami, confirmed that CCC MPs were being denied the chance to hold parliamentary feedback meetings. He expressed concern about the ban and said that they would challenge it through the courts of the land. Mutseyami encouraged MPs to meet their constituents continuously, despite the challenges.
Speaker of Parliament Jacob Mudenda said that he was unaware of the opposition MPs being denied a chance to meet their communities on parliamentary business. The National Police spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, was unavailable for comment, while Zanu PF Chief Whip, Pupurai Togarepi, did not answer calls or respond to questions.
Over 50 constituency meetings organised by the CCC have reportedly been banned by the police, citing MOPA. The move has been criticized by analysts, who say it tilts the electoral playing field in favour of Zanu PF. Meetings by pro-democracy groups have also been blocked since last year, leading to accusations that President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government is shutting the civic space ahead of the elections.
At the second dialogue platform on arrears clearance and debt resolution process for Zimbabwe, last month, former Mozambique President Joaquim Chissano urged Mnangagwa to respect democratic values ahead of the 2023 elections.
Source – Tarisai Masimba News
