adminSenior Reporter
MDC-T legislators, led by the party’s chief whip Mr Innocent Gonese, yesterday caused commotion in the National Assembly after they tried to block a motion to adjourn debate moved by Mabvuku-Tafara representative Mr James Maridadi calling on Parliament to set up a committee of inquiry into the country’s power sector.
The motion to adjourn had been moved by Deputy Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Dr Win Mlambo. Speaker of the House Cde Jacob Mudenda then asked members for their opinion.
Zanu-PF representatives, who had dominated the debate, wanted it adjourned, while the MDC-T representatives opposed the move.
Cde Mudenda ruled that the affirmation to the adjournment had prevailed, but Mr Gonese stood up in protest and this resulted in a brief stoppage of proceedings. Mr Gonese then called for the matter to be put to vote. The MDC-T lost after 91 legislators voted in favour of the adjournment against 27 that were opposed.
After more legislators said they wanted the House to adjourn, Mr Gonese again tried to block the move using the same tactic, but was overuled by Cde Mudenda who warned him against making frivolous debates.
“I think we should avoid bringing about frivolous and vexatious debate,” said Cde Mudenda.
“In terms of Standing Order 95, I overrule the honourable member. He has ample time to debate tomorrow (today).”
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