MORGAN Tsvangirai, leader of Zimbabwe’s opposition Movement for Democratic Change, on Wednesday announced a shadow cabinet that he said would keep President Robert Mugabe’s government on its toes.
Mr Tsvangirai said the shadow cabinet will periodically review the performance of Mr Mugabe’s government through various forums in and outside parliament. It would also work with MPs and local authorities throughout the country "to ensure the delivery of services and development assistance".
The former prime minister said: "Our shadow cabinet is not an exact mirror of Mr Mugabe’s bloated structure but it incorporates all government functions represented by his cabinet."
He would not, however, mirror the president’s "ministers of state for provincial affairs" as this was a "dictatorial structure designed to subvert the will and desire of the people of Zimbabwe for an elected devolved government".
Mr Tsvangirai said he remained committed to "real devolution and a lean central executive structure of 21 that is accountable to the people and responsive to their needs. The first task of this shadow cabinet will be to review the agenda that Mr Mugabe outlined yesterday (Thursday, in parliament) and respond accordingly".
In the shadow cabinet — a feature of the British political system — opposition spokespeople form an alternative cabinet to that of the government.
Mr Tsvangirai’s shadow cabinet members are:
1. International relations and co-operation: Gordon Moyo
2. Tourism, environment and natural resources: Thamsanqa Mahlangu
3. Finance and economic development: Tendai Biti
4. Defence: Gift Chimanikire
5. Health and child welfare: Ruth Labode
6. Basic education: Concilia Chinanzvavana
7. Higher education, science and technology: Peter Matarutse
8. Local government: Sesel Zvidzai
9. Transport: Elias Mudzuri
10. Communications: Nelson Chamisa
11. Mines and minerals development: Abednico Bhebhe
12. Energy and power development: Morgan Komichi
13. Agriculture, land and water development: Sipepa Nkomo
14. Justice, legal and parliamentary affairs: Jessie Majome
15. Home affairs: Lilian Timveos
16. Industry and commerce: Tapiwa Mashakada
17. Labour, employment and social security: Paurina Mpariwa
18. Women’s affairs, gender and community development: Lucia Matibenga
19. Youth, sport, arts and culture: Solomon Madzore
20. Public works and national housing: Joel Gabbuza
21. Planning commission: Jameson Timba, Theresa Makone, Douglas Mwonzora, Tongai Matutu and Elton Mangom
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