admin
Walter Mswazie, Masvingo Correspondent
THE cash-strapped Masvingo City Council has resolved to install Wi-Fi services at the houses of all its 10 councillors, a move criticised by residents.
Finance and General Purpose committee chairman, Councillor Babylon Beta, said the move was going to assist city fathers who were facing challenges in accessing documents.
“My committee has resolved to provide all councilors with internet services for easy communication. As we speak gadgets have been procured,” said Clr Beta.
“Modalities for the installation of Wi-Fi facilities at each councillor’s house are at an advanced stage. Concerns have been raised over failure by councillors to access important council information as soft copies and it was decided that city fathers be provided with internet services in the comfort of their homes.”
According to the latest full council meeting minutes, the committee asked on the progress of the deal.
“The committee sought clarification on progress regarding the installation of Wi-Fi services at councillors’ residences.
“This is to enable them to access soft copy documents. It was clarified that the gadgets had been procured and management was awaiting direction from the acting Town Clerk, Engineer Edward Mukaratirwa,” reads part of the minutes.
Residents have however, slated the move saying the city has more pressing issues that affect the lives of people which should be attended to ahead of luxuries.
“We are taken aback by the councillors’ conduct. The whole full council cannot give priority to luxuries like Wi-Fi when residents have gone for three weeks without access to clean and potable water. There is a fault at Bushmead pumping Intake equipment which is yet to be fixed.
“The city cannot afford such at the expense of service delivery,” said Mr Godfrey Mutimba of the Masvingo United Residents and Ratepayers Alliance (MURRA). — @ walterbmswazie2
Online Reporter