HARARE — Senators on Thursday renewed criticism over the persistent absence of Cabinet ministers during Question Time, saying the practice was undermining Parliament’s oversight role and forcing one minister to answer questions outside his portfolio.
The concerns were raised after the Senate was informed that apologies had been received from more than a dozen ministers and deputy ministers. At the start of proceedings, Acting President of Senate Sen. Kambizi noted that only a handful of ministers were present, including Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, Minister for State Security Owen Ncube, Deputy Information Minister Omphile Marupi and Deputy National Housing Minister Musa Ncube.
As Question Time drew to a close, Sen. Gotora challenged the continued absence of ministers, saying Parliament was repeatedly directing questions to a single member of Cabinet.
“We have over 40 ministers in the country and we have never seen some of them,” Gotora said.
“Coming to you now Leader of Government Business, through you, Mr. President, what is it that we must do to make sure that these ministers who do not come here, come? We are asking one minister all the questions here, as if he is the only minister in the country.”
He added: “What is it that we must do in this august House for the rest of the other ministers to come here and do Government business?”
Acting President of Senate Sen. Kambizi acknowledged the recurring concern, saying it had been raised repeatedly by lawmakers.
“Indeed, this is a matter that has been raised in this House for a considerable period. I am pleased that it was raised again last week and I undertook to pursue it,” he said.
Kambizi said the Leader of Government Business had taken note of the issue but declined to invite an immediate response, saying, “the matter has been duly noted for appropriate action.”
Sen. Zindi also sought stronger accountability, arguing that ministers should attend the House to respond not only to oral questions but also to committee reports and motions containing recommendations directed at their ministries.
During Thursday’s session, Justice Minister Ziyambi responded to questions on issues ranging from education and health to broadcasting, the economy, traditional leadership and the reintegration of Zimbabweans returning from South Africa, despite many of the questions falling under other ministries’ mandates.
