'Zimbabwe army won't evict vendors unless requested'

Government has clarified misconceptions that the army can be deployed to evict illegal vendors in towns and cities, saying relocating vendors is a prerogative of local authorities.

Responding to questions from MDC-T National Assembly member, Ms Ronia Bunjira on the government policy regarding the eviction of illegal vendors by the army in parliament today, leader of the house, Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa said evicting vendors is the duty of local authorities, adding that the army can only be called in the event that police have requested their services.

The move by government to lift the exportation of raw chrome also came under the spotlight with Bikita West legislator, Munyaradzi Kereke questioning its rationale.

The Deputy Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Fred Moyo said the need to boost productivity and create employment has been at the driving motive for lifting the ban.

There were some light moments in the house when Gokwe Nembudziya legislator, Justice Mayor Wadyajena was told to withdraw a statement when it was perceived he had mocked the bald headed honourable Bunjira by saying she must put on a wig.

Honourable Priscilla Misihairambwi-Mushonga raised a point of order, saying the utterances amounted to sexist language.