MP dismisses Matabeleland marginalisation talk

A MEMBER of Parliament from Bulawayo has slammed the people of Matabeleland for riding on alleged marginalisation when they are not aggressive in grabbing available opportunities, opting instead to cross the border into South Africa.

Zanu-PF Pelandaba-Mpopoma MP Joseph Tshuma said this yesterday at Inyathi Youth Centre in Mpopoma suburb during a meeting with pastors who lead churches located in his constituency.

Tshuma said he has come across several people who complain about marginalisation when in actual fact they are ignorant about the issues concerned.

The MP cited talk of alleged marginalisation when it comes to employment, enrolment of students in colleges and universities as well as recruitment in the civil service.

He said many people lose out on opportunities as they depend on hearsay instead of seeking clarity from the correct offices.

The legislator was responding to one of the pastors who had raised the issue of marginalisation saying people from the region are neglected when it comes to jobs and other opportunities.

Tshuma said he was forced to approach the Zimbabwe National Army over recruitments after members of the public complained about being left out.

"I went to complain about the recruitments in the army after being told that children from the region were being marginalised. I was welcomed by the recruiting officer who showed me that about 15 out of 100 places reserved for people from Matabeleland were not being taken up," said Tshuma.

"People from our region are not determined. They're choosy. They prefer going to South Africa."

Tshuma said last year he confronted the head of Nkulumane Primary School on the school's alleged decision to withhold Grade Seven examination results over unpaid fees but was later to learn that parents were in the wrong.

"Parents need to be honest about things. They don't want to make payment plans with schools. Be honest and then get help," he said.

Tshuma said it was imperative for local people to approach relevant authorities before lodging complaints.

He said there are other genuine cases where locals have been overlooked saying those are the incidents his office wants to address.