Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa-Mashonaland West Bureau
PROPORTIONAL representation councillors, elected to improve the percentage of women councillors, have the same powers and responsibilities as elected ward councillors, a Cabinet minister has said.
The Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, said PR councillors can even be elected Mayor, with the only distinction being that they do not represent specific wards.
Minister Garwe made this clarification on Monday during the Local Authorities Indaba that was held at the Chinhoyi Show Grounds.
The meeting was attended by traditional chiefs, councillors and council executives.
The clarification followed concerns raised by Chinhoyi PR councillor, Cde Maggie Chidarikire, who said PR councillors are often labelled as “Ma Councillor eBacossi.”
“Our fellow ward councillors claim that we are not important and shouldn’t be voted into influential positions. They view us as merely ceremonial councillors with minimal importance,” she said.
According to Section 277(4) of the Constitution, 30 percent of the total number of councillors in each local authority across the country are reserved for women from party lists.
The introduction of female PR councillors in 2023 provided much-needed support to women navigating the male-dominated political landscape.
However, Minister Garwe stressed all councillors are equal.
“A PR councillor is just like any other elected councillor. There is no such thing as ‘Councillor weBacossi’. If we start calling names for councillors introduced by law, then it shows a lack of respect for our Constitution.”
He said the only difference lies in ward representation.
“When it comes to council business, they perform the same duties as elected councillors. Just like elected councillors, their term ends when the country holds another general election,” the Minister added.
Minister Garwe urged PR and ward councillors to unite to foster development within their local authorities.
“You should work together so that we can see progress in our respective localities.”
Unlike councillors who represent specific wards, PR councillors serve a broader role that encompasses the interests of the entire local authority.
Their expertise is not confined to just one ward.
In a separate interview, the Ministry’s director of communications, Mr Gabriel Masvora, highlighted that all councillors represent their entire authority, not just their wards.
“People need to remember that once elected, councillors’ duties extend beyond representing their specific wards; they represent the city’s interests as a whole. This is why they assume important roles such as mayors, council chairpersons, and committee members (housing, finance, etc.), contributing to debates for the entire city.”
The Indaba also saw Minister Garwe challenge councillors and traditional leaders to collaborate.
“Attaining Vision 2030 can only be realised if you work alongside traditional leaders, as outlined in the Constitution. Whenever you hold full council meetings, remember to invite them,” he said.
The minister assured traditional chiefs and councillors of President Mnangagwa’s unwavering support.
“The President is concerned about the welfare of traditional leaders and I would like to mention that in December, he will provide brand new vehicles as promised,” he said.
