By Thabiso Nxumalo
BULAWAYO – Newly-elected Bulawayo mayor David Coltart says he will not accept any mayoral vehicles set to be allocated to him as part of his conditions of service, telling a group of civic leaders Tuesday he would rather see the funds used to acquire the cars rechanneled towards service delivery initiatives.
The CCC politician was speaking during a Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) engagement meeting with city fathers in Bulawayo.
He said the country’s second largest city was at a deficit of refuse compactors, fire engines and ambulances.
“I had a meeting with the town clerk and he said that we only have six refuse compactors and the minimum needed is at least 11, five ambulances of which the city needs 30 and there are only four fire engines.
“We have a serious task ahead of us and it starts with me and each and every one of us has to commit themselves to this foundational principle of putting the city first.
“We are here to serve and not to be served,” Coltart said.
The one-time government minister said a city once renowned for its cleanliness and flawless service delivery had become an eye sore.
Coltart rallied residents to take up initiatives aimed at keeping their environment clean so as to restore the metropolis’ legacy.
“We need to develop a new culture and that doesn’t take any money; it just takes all of us having the same goal and energy.
“We must be the change we want to see. It starts with us and we have to do this collectively.
“It doesn’t take any money at all to tidy up outside your own home, street and in front of your business,” he said.
The iconic city has seen service delivery deteriorate over the years amid interference by the Zanu PF led central government and a host of other challenges linked to the country’s ruined economy.
It is however not the first time the former legislator and lawyer has turned down a vehicle offer.
When he was appointed Education minister during the 2009-13 inclusive government, Coltart rejected a government Mercedes Benz opting for a Nissan 4×4 which was much better suited to visiting rural schools.
