Stop heckling in front of cameras: Khupe

MDC-T acting president Thokozani Khupe has urged her fellow legislators to desist from heckling each other in Parliament, adding that it portrays a bad picture to the public who follow live proceedings.

Khupe’s sentiments came following an exchange of words between Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi and Harare East legislator Tendai Biti after the minister had accused Biti of divorcing several wives and threatening to divulge his personal information if he refused to acknowledge the chairperson, prompting fellow legislators to start interjecting disturbing proceedings.

However, this did not go down well with Khupe who was quick to remind her peers that Wednesday’s, Question and Answer sessions are broadcasted live on ZBC and seen by the electorate.

“Today is a Wednesday where every Zimbabwean is glued on the television to listen to Honourable Members whilst they ask questions to Ministers pertaining to their concerns and we cannot go on like this Madam Speaker.

“I would like to appeal to Honourable Members of Parliament so that we utilise Wednesday to the maximum for the benefit of the people out there. I appeal to you Honourable Members.” She said.

Cheering and jeering is not an uncommon feature in Parliament across the world and in some other countries it has turned to a fist fight, thereby disturbing house business.

Maintaining order and discipline is part of the roles of chief whips, but on several occasions, the whips have been found wanting.-