Aggressive politicians missing in Zimbabwe

Outspoken ex-ZIPRA war veteran Max Mkandla has lamented the absence of bold and assertive politicians capable of championing national development and cultural issues in Parliament and government.

"We are trying to highlight that there are missing people in Parliament who can stand with the people on issues of development and cultural matters based on regional beliefs," Mkandla said.

He listed several former leaders and activists whom he believes could transform the national discourse and offer meaningful advice to the Head of State.

"The missing persons who can stand with people are as follows: Moses Mzila Ndlovu (former Minister of National Healing and Reconciliation), former Parliament Speaker Lovemore Moyo, former Nkayi South legislator Abedinico Bhebhe, former Minister of Parastatals Gorden Moyo, political analyst Dr. Abigale Mupambi, former Minister of Information Media and Broadcasting Jonathan Moyo, Paul Siwela, human rights defender George Mkwananzi, former legislator Priscilla Misihairambwi, former Vice President Joice Mujuru, Vivian Mwashita, Jethro Mkwananzi, Linda Masarira, war vet Jabulani Sibanda, war vet Andrew Ndlovu, war vet Ethan Matibela, and war vet Buster Magwizi - just to name a few. These people can change the face of that Parliament and give good advice to the Head of State," he said.

Mkandla argued that this is the kind of leadership needed to openly discuss the idea of a one-party state and build consensus across the country.

"Massive workshops must be taken seriously because at present we don't have opposition political parties, but groups of people who are not happy with the current Parliament team or setups - who don't meet or address people's problems or projects as promised during previous elections," he said.