Online Reporter
Paul Pindani in CHINHOYI
THE Municipality of Chinhoyi’s decision to buy 20 motorbikes for Councillors has sparked debate over whether this will improve service delivery to tens of thousands of residents.
Chinhoyi Mayor, Councillor Owen Charuza, told H-Metro that a dozen Councillors will benefit from this arrangement.
He said the Councillors would repay the cost of the motorbikes on a monthly basis.
“These are things that are happening across all local authorities,” he said.
“I would like to believe Chegutu and Kadoma municipalities did the same and these are local authorities which are within our province.
“You will find out that eight other Councillors refused to take them.
“It is true that Council bought the motorbikes. They are actually on their way.”
While the Council says the motorbikes are meant to make it easier for Councillors to reach communities, and monitor projects, the move has raised questions about whether the expenditure represents a necessary investment in the city’s operations.
A local resident, Peter Chubwa, told H-Metro that the purchase also places the spotlight on how the council intends to ensure that the motorcycles translate into tangible benefits for residents.
“With local authorities often facing limited resources, and competing demands, residents will likely want to see clear evidence that the investment improves accountability, responsiveness and the delivery of basic services,” said Chubwa.
However, another resident, Olivia Mapuranga, said it was a good move by the local authority to buy the motorbikes.
“It’s a good step in the right direction. Other councils within the province have done so and there is nothing amiss about it,” said Mapuranga.
