THERE are fresh calls for the immediate resignation and prosecution of Health minister David Parirenyatwa, following reports that he has since paid back the $100 000 that he “unprocedurally” received from the struggling Premier Services Medical Aid Society (PSMAS).
Health stakeholders, legislators and opposition parties are accusing Parirenyatwa of bringing into disrepute his position and the ministry he represents.
MDC-T legislator for Mabvuku James Maridadi said it was preposterous that Parirenyatwa after allegedly helping himself to the $100 000 merely returned the money and it was business as usual.
“He took a soft loan and now has returned it at zero interest. That is just down right ridiculous,” Maridadi fumed.
The legislator also tore into Secretary of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services George Charamba for saying that “government was happy” the minister had paid back in full.
“What cheeky from Charamba. He also helped himself to the loot at PSMAS,” Maridadi said.
Parirenyatwa recently ordered PSMAS to reinstate suspended chief executive officer Henry Mandishona who allegedly authorised the $100 000 payment.
But the Jeremiah Bvirindi-led PSMAS board stuck to its guns and has instead fired Mandishona for misconduct among many other charges.
“It only goes to show the level of decadence within the ruling party. We have had enough of the rot and (President) Robert Mugabe and his team should go.” Maridadi added.
Trustee for the Citizen Health Watch, Fungisayi Dube said it was unfortunate that while thousands of people were failing to access quality health service, officials were embroiled in such debacles.
She also said it was suspicious that, if indeed the transaction had been above board, why would Parirenyatwa then return the money.
“It raises a lot of questions because why is he (minister) returning it now,”Dube asked.
The health delivery system continues to worsen and many people can no longer afford medical aid cover.
“How can a public official just return over a million rands and remain in office. He has grossly abused his office and should resign,” People’s Democratic Party spokesperson Jacob Mafume said.
He said the repayment was just a public reconciliation statement and there was no credible proof that this had been effected.
Parirenyatwa could not be reached for comment yesterday.
