The missed opportunity lies in the Speaker’s failure to rise above her perceived biases and unite the diverse voices within the National Assembly. This occasion could have been a platform for fostering inclusivity, fairness, and impartiality.
Mpandashalo Mwewa | Chief Editor.
Lusaka, Sept. 15 – In a bid to acknowledge outstanding performance among Members of Parliament, the National Assembly of Zambia recently introduced annual awards for exemplary parliamentarians. The inaugural Wesley Nyirenda Award for Outstanding Youth Member of Parliament was awarded to Twaambo Mutinta, the representative of Itezhi Tezhi.
Similarly, Chikankata MP, Jacqueline Sabao, was honoured with the Nelly Mutti Outstanding Woman MP of the Year award. Meanwhile, Luena Constituency MP, Mubita Anakoka, took home the prestigious Robinson Nabulyato award for the overall Best MP of the Year.
The ceremony, officiated by the Right Honorable Madam Speaker, Ms. Nelli Mutti, is an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of these parliamentarians and to inspire others to follow in their footsteps. As she addressed the audience, the Speaker emphasized the importance of MPs being role models in society, transcending partisan politics, and championing democratic ideals that would foster national development.
While the winners basked in the glory of their achievements, there were murmurs of discontent from Zambian citizens, including fellow Members of Parliament. They alleged that the Speaker exhibited bias throughout the awards process. Critics argue that this event could have been an opportune moment for her to repair her tarnished image.
Instead, they claim that her bias was further reinforced by the fact that all the award recipients were members of the United Party for National Development (UPND), the same party to which the Speaker belongs. Moreover, they point out that the UPND was the party that sponsored her candidature for the position of Speaker of the National Assembly.
Also Read: Sizzling sausages and suspicions; Unraveling the Speaker’s breakfast affair.
This controversy casts a shadow of doubt over the credibility of the awards and the intentions behind them. The perceived bias raises questions about the transparency and fairness of the selection process. It begs one to wonder if the accomplishments of other MPs, irrespective of their political affiliations or party sponsorships, were given proper consideration. Despite the achievements of the winners, the cloud of suspicion prevents many from wholeheartedly celebrating their success.
The missed opportunity lies in the Speaker’s failure to rise above her perceived biases and unite the diverse voices within the National Assembly. This occasion could have been a platform for fostering inclusivity, fairness, and impartiality. Regrettably, it only serves to reinforce existing divisions and deepen the fragmentation of political discourse.
Amidst the controversy, it is crucial for the Zambian society to reflect on the larger issue at hand: the need for genuine recognition and reward of outstanding parliamentary service. An awards ceremony, when executed with integrity, can motivate MPs to strive for excellence in their roles and ultimately contribute to the nation’s progress.
It is imperative for the National Assembly to restore confidence in the award process by addressing the concerns raised, ensuring transparency, and nurturing a culture of inclusivity and fairness. Only then can it truly be seen as a meaningful celebration of parliamentary achievement.
In conclusion, while the winners of the inaugural parliamentary awards should be congratulated for their commendable performance, the controversy surrounding the event has cast a shadow over their accomplishments and the credibility of the ceremony itself. What could have been a unifying moment highlighting the best aspects of parliamentary service became a missed opportunity for the Speaker to demonstrate impartiality and rebuild trust.
The focus must now lie on rectifying the flaws in the selection process to restore faith in future parliamentary awards and prioritize the recognition of all deserving MPs, regardless of their political affiliations or party sponsorships.
To make well-informed and thoughtful decisions, one must be able to see things from perspectives other than one’s own. Gain new perspectives by following Woodpecker’s Digest! Reading does open up a world of possibilities.
©2023 Woodpecker’s Digest.
Putting news into perspective
