adminBlessings Chidakwa Correspondent
Government should prioritise welfare of the country’s traditional leaders, Norton legislator Mr Temba Mliswa has said. His comments hardly a week after President Mnangagwa handed over all-terrain vehicles to 52 chiefs at a meeting with the country’s 280 chiefs in Gweru on January 13.
All chiefs are, however, expected to be given vehicles during the course of the year. Mr Mliswa told The Herald in a recent interview that despite the criticism, every right-thinking Zimbabwean should applaud such a gesture as chiefs remain the pillar of Zimbabwe’s culture and heritage.
“As the chiefs’ cars were already promised, purchased and paid for during the former President Robert Mugabe’s era, what would you have done upon their arrival and delivery if you were President Mnangagwa?
“Surely we must respect the chiefs’ dignity, although there’s no disputing the economic challenges and people are suffering.” Mr Mliswa also exhorted people to be patient with President Mnangagwa.
“The President cannot be blamed for hitting the ground running, neither can people also be blamed for being negative after so many years of challenges. Soon, everyone will find each other for the good of Zimbabwe,” he said.
“It is a process that requires patience from both sides, but we are on course.” He also took a swipe at large retail outlets countrywide for rampant price distortions.
“Apparently, pricing disparities are being created by retailers who are inflating prices from suppliers. For example, super quality meat supplied at about $6 is retailed at approximately $12,” he said. He, however, noted that prices are beginning to decline through interventions by Government and the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe.
Online Reporter