By Own Correspondent| Opposition legislator for Mutare Central Innocent Gonese has raised concern over the continous absence of the country’s two Vice Presidents Constantino Guvheya Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi from parliament sittings.

Gonese said the duo “have never been seen” in the chambers while their names are also conspicuously absent on the list of those who would have sought leave of absence.

Said Gonese:

“On a point of order Mr. Speaker.  In terms of our Standing Orders, those Hon. Ministers, Hon. Deputy Ministers and Vice Presidents who are not in Parliament today are supposed to seek leave of absence.  

I am simply asking the Chair to inform the House of the Hon. Ministers and Vice Presidents whom we have never seen. As a matter of fact, if the Hon. Chair can inform the House of those Hon. Ministers, Hon. Deputy Ministers and the Vice Presidents who have sought a leave of absence. 

In particular Mr. Speaker Sir, I also note with concern that the Hon. Vice Presidents have not been attending on most occasions. 

I have also noted Mr. Speaker Sir that generally speaking, the Hon. Vice Presidents are never in attendance and when the Chair read out the names of those who have sought leave of absence, their names are conspicuous by their absence from the list and also they are conspicuous by their absence from the Chamber.  

I think it is a matter which the Chair should really follow because the rules equally bind the Hon. Vice Presidents but my main point is to have the names of those who have sought leave of absence so that we are informed accordingly.”

Speaker of parliament Jacob Mudenda however said he would look into the issue.

He said:

“The Hon. Member is correct.  I have yet to receive some names seeking leave of absence.  I will ask the Clerk to check with Papers Office immediately and give me the apologies.  

I only have two at the moment.  The Minister of Local Government , Public Works and National Housing, Hon. J. Moyo and the Deputy Minister of Local Government , Public Works,  and National Housing Hon. J. Mhlanga.  I request the Clerk of Parliament to check with Papers Office and give me an updated list.”