Political Correspondent
Agency Gumbo, a legislator from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), has urged President Emmerson Mnangagwa to appoint the Minister of State Security, a position that has been vacant since January 2022.
Gumbo argues that the absence of this Minister violates Section 225 of Zimbabwe’s Constitution, which mandates the President to designate a Minister responsible for the country’s intelligence services.
The position became vacant following the dismissal of Owen “Mudha” Ncube, who was removed from office due to allegations of misconduct, including intimidating individuals at a Zanu PF provincial meeting.
Although Ncube returned to government in 2023 as the Midlands Provincial and Devolution Affairs Minister, the State Security portfolio has remained unfilled, raising concerns about the oversight and transparency of the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO), which has reportedly been centralized under the President’s direct control.
During a parliamentary session, Gumbo emphasized the critical nature of adhering to constitutional mandates, stating that the lack of a dedicated Minister hampers Parliament’s ability to perform its oversight role effectively. He highlighted that without this Minister, Parliament cannot interrogate or demand accountability on matters affecting national security, which he described as a “dire” situation.
Gumbo called on his fellow parliamentarians to recognize the issue as one of national importance, transcending party politics.
He urged President Mnangagwa to act swiftly, framing the appointment as an urgent matter for national security.
Another opposition figure, Iphithule Maphosa from the Congress for Transformation (CFT), echoed Gumbo’s concerns, suggesting that the failure to appoint a State Security Minister undermines constitutional governance. Maphosa pointed out that this situation raises broader questions about the centralization of power within Mnangagwa’s administration and the transparency of intelligence operations in Zimbabwe.
The call for the appointment of a State Security Minister reflects significant concerns regarding governance and accountability in Zimbabwe.
As the vacancy persists, the implications for national security oversight and constitutional adherence remain critical issues for both lawmakers and citizens alike.
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