By Kudzai Makuku
Many of us can recall the times when we sat for our Grade 7, ZJC, or O-Level examinations. Those were moments that demanded unwavering determination and perseverance. We studied long hours, sometimes under candlelight or using a chibani lamp, driven by a strong will to succeed. That sheer commitment to overcome hardship was a true testament to our resolve to pass those crucial exams.
This week, I witnessed that very same spirit of determination and endurance in President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Despite the challenging circumstances ,delivering his State of the Nation Address (SONA) in near darkness, after electricity went off ,the President pressed on. Nothing deterred him from completing his address to the nation. Such resolve and steadfastness are truly inspiring and worthy of admiration.
President Mnangagwa demonstrated to all Zimbabweans the importance of courage and resilience, even in the face of adversity. What matters most is that he completed and delivered his speech despite the odds. His determination to carry out his duties, no matter the circumstances, reflects the kind of leadership and tenacity that can motivate us all to persevere through our own challenges.
However, while I commend the President’s admirable resolve, the situation within Parliament itself requires urgent attention. This is now the second time such an incident has occurred, and frankly, it is unacceptable. Parliament ,the very heart of policy making in our nation ,should never be disrupted by something as basic as a power outage that’s a house that should demonstrate Zimbabwe’s strength.
It is imperative that Parliament invests in a reliable backup power system, such as solar energy complemented by standby generators. These measures are not luxuries but necessities for the proper functioning of our democracy. Power cuts during such critical national events make us appear disorganised and diminish our credibility as a nation. If this is happening within the parliamentary chambers, one can only imagine the daily realities faced by ordinary households across the country.
Beyond the embarrassment, however, lies a more serious issue ,national security. Any disruption of power during an official function attended by the Head of State poses potential security risks. The sudden loss of visibility can compromise the safety of the President, government officials, and dignitaries present. In such moments, confusion and uncertainty can create vulnerabilities that no responsible institution should ignore.
It is therefore crucial that Parliament, together with the relevant ministries and security agencies, treats these incidents with the urgency they deserve. Robust systems must be put in place to guarantee uninterrupted power supply and ensure that national events of such magnitude proceed without disruption or risk.
There should be no excuses. This matter is not merely an inconvenience ,it is an embarrassment and a security concern. As Zimbabweans, we must confront and resolve these issues decisively if we are to build the modern, efficient, and respected nation we all aspire to see.
Comments
About Author
