Valerio rubbishes Mnangagwa's Cabinet

The newly announced Cabinet by President Emmerson Mnangagwa is unlikely to meet the expectations of many Zimbabweans who are facing the country's economic hardships, according to Elisabeth Valerio, the president of the opposition United Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA).

Valerio, who ran in the presidential race on August 23 and 24 but emerged as one of the distant losers, expressed disappointment with the composition of Mnangagwa's new Cabinet. Mnangagwa retained most of the previous members in his 26-member Cabinet.

UZA had hoped that the new Cabinet would demonstrate Mnangagwa's commitment to addressing the country's economic challenges, especially the rising unemployment affecting young people. However, Valerio believes that the newly appointed Cabinet falls short of these expectations.

She criticized Mnangagwa for what she described as nepotism, citing the appointment of his son, David Kudakwashe, as Deputy Minister of Finance and his nephew, Tongai, as Deputy Minister of Tourism. Valerio characterized this as indicative of dynastic succession.

Valerio urged Mnangagwa to consider consolidating some ministries to create a leaner Cabinet and to ensure a 50/50 gender balance in appointments. She emphasized the importance of meritocracy in achieving gender equity.

Furthermore, Valerio called on Mnangagwa to withdraw the appointments of ministers who are perceived as past their prime and make way for younger ministers with the capacity to bring forth new and innovative ideas.

Finally, she urged the president to engage in consultations with all stakeholders to find solutions to the country's challenges, promote stability, and unify the nation following the elections.