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'Drunk' Zanu-PF MP causes stir in Parliament
10 hrs ago |
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Things turned tense in Parliament on Thursday night when a Zanu-PF MP made a personal remark about the mother of Kwekwe legislator Judith Tobaiwa (CCC) during a debate on maternal health.
The session, which ran late into the night as MPs scrutinised the Finance Bill, reportedly saw some members under the influence of alcohol, leading to chaotic exchanges and reckless statements.
Tobaiwa had been advocating for a dedicated budget for maternal health, arguing that the current allocation was insufficient. She told the House:
"I think regarding maternal health, why can't we have a standalone budget for it? We hear of free maternal health, which doesn't exist, and then our mothers face challenges in giving birth due to these issues."
It was at this point that a Zanu-PF MP interrupted, questioning why Tobaiwa was discussing maternal health when her mother could no longer have children.
The comment sparked outrage in the chamber. Tobaiwa responded sharply:
"You cannot bring my mother into this discussion. My mother is not in Parliament, and if you have an issue, you can confront me, not my mother. That is wrong."
Fellow MPs called for an apology, with some even suggesting that breathalysers be used, as a few members appeared intoxicated. The Acting Speaker reminded the House that, while members were adults, such personal and offensive comments were entirely unacceptable.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions in Parliament and the challenges faced when discussing sensitive issues such as maternal health.
The session, which ran late into the night as MPs scrutinised the Finance Bill, reportedly saw some members under the influence of alcohol, leading to chaotic exchanges and reckless statements.
Tobaiwa had been advocating for a dedicated budget for maternal health, arguing that the current allocation was insufficient. She told the House:
"I think regarding maternal health, why can't we have a standalone budget for it? We hear of free maternal health, which doesn't exist, and then our mothers face challenges in giving birth due to these issues."
The comment sparked outrage in the chamber. Tobaiwa responded sharply:
"You cannot bring my mother into this discussion. My mother is not in Parliament, and if you have an issue, you can confront me, not my mother. That is wrong."
Fellow MPs called for an apology, with some even suggesting that breathalysers be used, as a few members appeared intoxicated. The Acting Speaker reminded the House that, while members were adults, such personal and offensive comments were entirely unacceptable.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions in Parliament and the challenges faced when discussing sensitive issues such as maternal health.
Source - Pindula
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