Former Higher and Tertiary Education Deputy Minister Issues Public Apology After Being Fired by President Mnangagwa

Former Higher and Tertiary Education Deputy Minister Simelisizwe Sibanda Issues Public Apology After Getting Fired by President Mnangagwa

Former Higher and Tertiary Education Deputy Minister Simelisizwe Sibanda has issued a public apology.

This comes after President Emmerson Mnangagwa fired him with immediate effect from his role yesterday.

He was fired for ordering the transfer of an ECD teacher who was not proficient in isiNdebele at a Bubi school, where Sibanda is a legislator.

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

Former Higher and Tertiary Education Deputy Minister Simelisizwe Sibanda Public Apology for Controversial Decision

In a statement, former deputy minister Simelisizwe Sibanda publicly apologized for his action.

“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

He took full responsibility for his actions and opined that he should 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.”

Apologies to ZANU PF Leadership and Members

He apologized to the leadership and members of the ZANU PF party.

“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 I 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 Opportunity to Serve

He went on express gratitude to President Emmerson Mnangagwa for giving him the opportunity to serve the ministry of education.

“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.”