Mahoka, Wadyajena and crocodiles

*HON. MAHOKA:  Let me proceed.  On the issue of crocodiles, Madam Speaker, most children in Hurungwe as I speak, were eaten by crocodiles.  So, I do not think that it is a problem for us to talk about in the House that most children are being eaten by crocodiles to ensure that the Government addresses the problem for them to travel to school safely.  On the matter pertaining to domestic violence,  – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] –

*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER:  Hon. Mahoka, speak to the Chair.

*HON. MAHOKA:  On the issue of violence, against women.  Most men in the homes are engaging in violence against women.  The President mentioned this issue but I realise that domestic violence against women is on the increase.  This is because our law enforcement agents, such as the ZRP do not have vehicles for them to be mobile.  Even if women are abused, it is difficult for them to get assistance because the police themselves are not mobile.          Our request is for the Government to increase the number of vehicles in the rural police stations to ensure that women are protected from domestic violence.

Currently, there is the issue of the tobacco season.  Most women will experience gender based violence when they want a share from the produce.  When their rights are violated, they are reluctant to go and report because the police station is too far and they know that the police will not come.  My request is that the Government increases the number of vehicles in rural police stations.

Hon Chinotimba having told Hon. Mahoka that you are left with only four minutes.

*THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER:   Order, Hon. Chinotimba, I am the Chair and it is me who can only give a ruling.  I thank you.

*HON. MAHOKA: Madam Speaker, I am not left with four minutes.

* THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Yes, you are left with four minutes Hon. Mahoka.

*HON. MAHOKA: On the issue of corruption that was alluded to by the President, I have not noticed any action that has been taken.  Since the President mentioned this, I have not witnessed anyone being imprisoned or brought to book because of corruption.  All those who are responsible for bringing these people to book should ensure that they do their work so that corruption is brought to an end for the development of the nation.

On agriculture and farms, someone talked about VAT or taxes.  I want to support the Hon. Member who alluded to the fact that taxes are now too high.  In A2 farms, they are taxed twice; the council taxes them and the Ministry of Lands and Rural Resettlement also requires tax for that same piece of land…

Hon. Zindi and Hon. Wadyajena having been making noise.

THE TEMPORARY SPEAKER: Hon. Zindi and Hon. Wadyajena, do not make me cross.

Continued next page

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