By Lloyd Takawira
At a time when the economic situation is worsening legislators are under the spotlight over what analysts have described as ‘unnecessary.’
The general public, however, has divided opinion.
MPs recently requested that they certain fuel stations be set aside for their convenience.
They argued that this would allow then to move around in their respective constituencies and to and fro the National Assembly parliamentary proceedings in Harare while they execute their duties.
Bustop TV took to the streets to get the general feeling among the people.
Marimba from Makoni Unit L Seke Chitungwiza supported the legislator’s argument.
“They (MPs) must be capacitated. They need fuel to visit us here hence it’s a good move.”
Mr Mutamba from Shamva rubbished the demand which he said was a self-enrichment ploy.
“I think the MPs must be someone with resources thus for one to be an MP it shouldn’t be a route to self-enrichment but an elected representative for the people ”
One Facebook user, Paul Saungweme wrote ” the calibre of our elected representatives leaves a lot be desired. They have a disease called “hyper opulence and penchant for luxury and privileges.”
Political analyst, Frank Chauke said it is a noble cause to capacite our members of parliament.
“Members of parliament need to access communities to which they represent hence they need resources like fuel.”
Mai Maimba from Bindura castigated the level of extravagance exhibited.
“I’m a teacher, I’m not being adequately paid and some people have the guts to ask for so many things to go and sleep or play in that room. Look at the level of debates. Very deplorable.”
Speaking during a question and answer session on Thursday, Manicaland Senator Keresencia Chabuka (MDC-Alliance) asked Energy and Power Development Deputy Minister Magna Mudyiwa to explain what government was doing to ease the fuel situation.
“Today is Thursday (and) tomorrow we are expected to check out (of hotels) and go to our respective constituencies; how do we get there?
“Service stations with fuel are selling in United States dollars, yet we are paid in local currency. Most of the time, we have fuel coupons and most service stations would be sold in hard currency.”
In the past legislators have again demanded diplomatic passports.
