Watchdogs and lawmakers – A deep dive with MP Bajila

Thembelihle Mhlanga

Have you ever wondered how laws are made in Zimbabwe, or how the government is held accountable? In a recent online forum, Emakhandeni-Luveve MP, Honourable Discent Bajila, shed light on the inner workings of Parliament, revealing the vital roles Members of Parliament (MPs) play in our democracy.

Bajila highlighted Parliament’s critical “oversight role on government ministries and entities.” This means MPs, through committees aligned with each ministry, act as watchdogs, monitoring activities, spending, and policy implementation. This ensures transparency and holds the government responsible for its actions.

He explained that this oversight function is carried out through the portfolio committees, which are structured according to government ministries. “Each ministry has a corresponding portfolio committee in Parliament that is tasked with monitoring and evaluating the ministry’s activities, expenditures, and policy implementation,” Bajila noted. He added that MPs are typically limited to serving on a maximum of two portfolio committees, ensuring a balanced distribution of responsibilities across the legislative body.

Interestingly, Zimbabwe’s lawmaking process isn’t limited to the government. the MP clarified that “anyone in parliament can come up with a motion to propose for a bill,” empowering MPs across the political spectrum to shape legislation.

Responding to questions about public participation in the parliamentary process, Bajila emphasized the importance of citizen engagement. “Any citizen or legal persona can petition parliament,” he said, “and the petition should be objective and non-provocative, without being prescriptive of a predetermined solution.”

Being an MP goes beyond attending Parliament sessions. Bajila explained that MPs engage in “constituency work,” meeting with locals and advocating on their behalf. They also delve into complex issues, conducting research and analyzing policies with experts to ensure legislation serves the public interest. “We work closely with parliamentary staff and subject-matter experts to thoroughly review and scrutinize bills, amendments, and government policies to ensure they align with the needs and interests of the people.”

Accountability is paramount.The MP emphasized the power of portfolio committees to “summon ministers, permanent secretaries” and other officials to answer questions about their ministries’ performance. This ensures the government remains transparent and delivers on its promises.

As the Community Podium-facilitated session concluded, Hon. Bajila reiterated the importance of continuous dialogue between elected representatives and the citizens they serve. “An informed and engaged citizenry is essential for the effective functioning of our democratic institutions,” he said. “I encourage all Zimbabweans to actively participate in the parliamentary process and hold us, as their representatives, accountable.”