Former Education Deputy Minister Issues Public Apology After Getting Fired by President Mnangagwa

Former Deputy Minister Simelisizwe Sibanda Issues Public Apology After Getting Fired by President Mnangagwa

Former Deputy Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education Simelisizwe Sibanda has publicly apologized for his actions following President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s immediate dismissal.

The dismissal was prompted by his decision to transfer an Early Childhood Development (ECD) teacher, who lacked proficiency in isiNdebele, from a school in Bubi, where Sibanda serves as a legislator.

Also Read: President Mnangagwa Shakes Up Cabinet Again: Third Minister Fired in Months

Former Deputy Minister Simelisizwe Sibanda’s Public Apology for Controversial Decision

In a statement seen by ZimLive, former Deputy Minister Simelisizwe Sibanda publicly apologized for his actions.

“I, Honourable Simelisizwe Sibanda, former Deputy Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, do hereby express my sincere apologies for the concerns arising from my recent actions.”

Acknowledgment of Misguided Approach and Tribal Sensitivities

Simelisizwe Sibanda took full responsibility for his actions and expressed that he should have handled the situation in a more appropriate manner.

“I understand that my approach to addressing the issue of a teacher’s language proficiency was misguided and inappropriate, leading to perceptions of tribalism.

I want to assure the public and especially the teachers that my intention was solely to ensure that our children receive quality education, and I was concerned about the teacher’s ability to communicate effectively with her students.

However, as a national leader, I should have addressed this issue through appropriate channels, avoiding public platforms that may have fueled the tribal connotations.

I take full responsibility for my actions and acknowledge that my approach was wrong. 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.”

Simelisizwe Sibanda Apologies to ZANU PF Leadership and Members

Simelisizwe Sibanda apologized to the leadership and members of the ZANU PF party. He acknowledged the party’s core values of unity and inclusivity.

He expressed regret for any harm caused due to his own error in judgment.

“I also want to extend my apologies to all the leadership and members of my Party, ZANU PF. I understand the party’s values of unity and inclusivity and regret any harm caused by my lack of judgment.

I hope that the party and its members will accept my sincere apologies and recognize my commitment to our nation’s progress.”

Gratitude to President Mnangagwa for the Opportunity to Serve

He went on to express gratitude to President Emmerson Mnangagwa for giving him the opportunity to serve in the Ministry of Education. He expressed remorse for disappointing him.

“I would like to thank His Excellency, the President CDE Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, for trusting me and giving me the opportunity to serve within the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation Science and Technology Development, and regret that I have let him down.”