Continued absenteeism from Parliament by legislators between 2014 and early 2019 is still angering electorates who have warned the current candidates against repeating the same if elected.
Participants to a political debate for parliamentary candidates in Chiradzulu, expressed this concern over the weekend, observing that it derails development as their problems are not presented in the August House for assistance.
The debate was organised by the National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE Trust), at Malavi primary school in Chiradzulu central constituency.
One of the concerned people, Zinenani Mkomera Chipinga, wondered why MPs boycott deliberations, knowing fully of their obligation which is representing their people.
“For a long time, our MPs have been boycotting parliamentary proceedings for invalid reasons. Some even fail to contribute till the House rises. We feel betrayed by such conduct, because our problems are not tackled,” she said.
On this note, she warned the would-be legislatures against repeating the same, saying the communities will not hesitate to take them to task.
In concurrence, John Itimu, another community member, observed that most MPs dump their people once elected, and settle for towns.
“Our leaders find themselves in towns, abandoning us here. This trend affects thorough implementation of projects because the MPs are not here to monitor progress. At the end of the day, we have substandard works,” he pointed out.
In reaction, the parliamentary hopefuls: Geoffrey Bwanali (UTM), Mactimes Malowa (DPP), Donata Kamwendo (UP), Mable Masangano (PP), Elijah Ngulinga (Independent) and Winstone Begi (MCP), pledged to construct constituency offices to serve the people better.
The aspirants further said they will represent their constituents better in parliament once voted into power.
They vowed to provide potable water, improve road networks, construct school blocks and improve agriculture and health services if elected.
Earlier, NICE Trust District Civic Education Officer, Kondwani Newa, urged the electorates to vote in their large numbers on May 21, and elect responsible individuals who have their welfare at heart.
Some of the topics which were tackled during the debate include health, food security, governance and security (with a special approach for people with albinism).
NICE Trust has been conducting political debates for MP and Councillors in-waiting, aimed at providing them a platform to sell their manifestos and interact with their constituents.
