RECENTLY fired Deputy Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Simelisizwe Sibanda, has issued a public apology to Zimbabweans for his recent actions that were perceived as tribalistic and divisive.
In a statement released on July 2, 2024, Sibanda acknowledged that his approach to addressing the issue of a teacher’s language proficiency was “misguided and inappropriate” and perpetuated tribal divisions.
He took full responsibility for his actions and apologised to the teaching fraternity and the nation at large.
“I understand that my actions may have perpetuated tribal divisions, and for that, I truly apologise to the whole teaching fraternity and nation at large,” Sibanda said.
“I want to assure the public that my commitment to our nation’s unity and development has always been genuine.”
Sibanda’s apology comes after he was fired by President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Monday for inciting tribal tensions in his constituency.
The President’s decision was made in accordance with Section 108(1a) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe and was effective immediately.