Bishops Condemn Constitution Amendment

Catholic bishops state Amendment Bill No. 3 imperils democracy.

Bishops, Generals Oppose Charter Bill

Opposition, clerics, and retired generals challenge proposed Presidential term extension.

Opposition leader Nelson Chamisa announced a "solid plan" for Zimbabwe's political crisis, as tensions rise over Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, which seeks to extend presidential and parliamentary terms. Retired Lieutenant General Winston Sigauke Mapuranga and Air Marshall (Retired) Henry Muchena warned former legislator Temba Mliswa. Constitutional law expert Lovemore Madhuku vowed to defeat the "ED 2030 Bill." Catholic bishops warned the bill threatens Zimbabwe’s democracy and imperils key provisions of the 2013 Constitution. ZANU PF Harare chairman Godwills Masimirembwa vowed ZANU PF would amend the Constitution to serve people’s interests. Businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei bribed traditional leaders with $2,500 cash amidst rising tensions. Lawyer Tawanda Nyambirai urged President Mnangagwa to dissolve Parliament and call fresh elections before August 2026. An opposition legislator claims some ZANU PF MPs also oppose the bill.

Suppliers Alarm Over ZiG Enforcement

Government policy to pay contractors exclusively in ZiG sparks alarm among businesses.

The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) announced the government will pay its contractors exclusively in ZiG. This policy aims to strengthen the domestic currency and improve fiscal discipline. RBZ Governor John Mushayavanhu welcomed the initiative, stating it promotes ZiG usage. Suppliers and businesses voiced alarm, warning of potential chaos from the ZiG-only transaction enforcement. They fear the policy threatens recent exchange rate stability and creates operational challenges. The RBZ assured state contractors of sufficient foreign currency reserves to meet US dollar demands. Zimbabwe’s plan to pay local suppliers exclusively in ZiG sparked alarm among businesses. The policy stems from objectives including strengthening domestic currency demand and improving public procurement systems. The RBZ guarantees forex for ZiG-paid contractors to mitigate concerns.

Fuel Prices Climb, Hit Regional High

Zimbabwe's petrol and diesel prices surge, making them the highest in the Southern African region.

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) hiked fuel prices, with petrol reaching US$2.17 per litre and diesel US$2.05. This makes Zimbabwe’s petrol the most expensive in the Southern African region. The government attributes the increase to rising costs linked to the Middle East conflict. An analysis reveals that increased taxes, rather than global conflict, primarily drive the surge, with the government now collecting 86 cents per litre in tax. Kombi fares skyrocketed by 50% to 100%, impacting commuters. Presidential spokesperson George Charamba confirmed officials are holding urgent consultations regarding a potential fuel tax reduction. Petrol taxes jumped from US$0.5209 to US$0.857, a 64% increase. Parliament demanded a ministerial statement from the Energy Minister for clarity on the price hikes. Some kombi fares now reach US$2.50 per trip, increasing daily commuter costs.

Public Hearings for Constitution Bill Encounter Obstacles

Public hearings for Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 face cancellations and fears of violence.

Public hearings for Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 commenced, sparking intense debate. The Defend the Constitution Platform (DCP) engaged international bodies, including the UN, over the controversial reforms. Speaker Jacob Mudenda stated public consultations would proceed. Yet, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) canceled a public meeting in Norton scheduled for an opposition legislator. Fears of violence loom ahead of these hearings. Civic society groups label them "cosmetic," citing limited venues and timeframe restricting public participation. The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) urged tolerance, advocating for equal rights for both supporters and opponents. The ZRP cancellation in Norton prevented a meeting at Ngoni Hall.

ZANU PF To Appoint Loyal Cadres

ZANU PF officials openly called for placing loyal cadres into government posts.

ZANU PF officials openly advocated for the deliberate placement of loyal party cadres into government posts. This policy statement signals a shift towards prioritizing party loyalty over merit in public service appointments. The move sparked criticism regarding governance and state capacity. Critics argue such a system impacts meritocracy within government institutions. The party's call indicates a strategy to consolidate political control across all levels of public administration. Top ZANU PF officials made these calls, directly linking government appointments to party allegiance. This action is a direct policy statement that reshapes the civil service structure. Criticism raises concerns about long-term governance integrity.

Heavy Rains Claim Over 130 Lives

Heavy rains across Zimbabwe since October killed over 130 people and injured 72 others.

Heavy rains across Zimbabwe since October have resulted in significant casualties and widespread infrastructure damage. The Department of Civil Protection (DCP) reported over 130 deaths and 72 injuries. This ongoing rainy season continues to devastate communities nationwide. The Jesuit Social Justice and Development Center, Silveira House, raised alarm over severe damage in Mberengwa District. Heavy rains destroyed roads and bridges, cutting off several communities. Damage to 237 schools occurred. The DCP’s latest situation report confirms 132 deaths and 72 injuries. The Mberengwa District experienced heavy rains since last Thursday, leading to heavy rains destroying critical infrastructure.

Zimbabwe Targets US$15.8 Billion Agriculture

Zimbabwe unveils an ambitious plan to grow its agricultural sector to US$15.8 billion by 2030.

Zimbabwe unveiled an ambitious plan to expand its agricultural sector, aiming for a gross value of US$15.8 billion by 2030. This initiative represents a significant economic policy to transform the nation's primary industry. The current sector value stands at over US$10 billion. This growth target requires substantial investment, policy reforms, and efficient resource management. Challenges include climate variability, market access, and infrastructure limitations. A senior government official announced the US$15.8 billion target. This plan is a core economic policy initiative with immense future potential for national economic transformation. Achieving this target relies on strategic government support and private sector engagement.

Bulawayo Council Confronts Illegal Mining

Bulawayo City Council directs Mayor Coltart to engage President Mnangagwa over illegal mining operations.

The Bulawayo City Council directed Mayor David Coltart to engage President Emmerson Mnangagwa. This directive addresses destructive illegal Chinese gold mining operations in the region. These mining operations damage the city’s vital water sources. Illegal mining causes crippling water shedding across the metropolitan area, impacting public health and daily life. The council emphasizes urgent presidential intervention. This issue raises concerns about environmental protection and resource management. Mayor Coltart was instructed to "engage Mnangagwa as soon as possible." This action underscores the problem's severity and perceived lack of local enforcement. Illegal Chinese gold miners destroy Bulawayo’s water sources.

Harare Council Reduces Business Fees

Harare City Council approved significant reductions in business license fees, aiming to boost SMEs.

The Harare City Council approved substantial reductions in business license fees, cutting costs by up to 50% as part of its 2025 budget. This move reduces the financial burden on businesses, particularly Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Retailers urge these cost savings must translate into lower shelf prices for consumers. The initiative follows President Mnangagwa’s order for a swift review of business licenses. This policy shift promotes economic activity within the capital. The fee reductions are part of the Harare City Council’s 2025 budget. The move targets a cost reduction of up to 50% for businesses. This supports SMEs and potentially sets a precedent for other local authorities.

Government Warns Village Heads on Land

The government issued a final warning to village heads engaging in illegal communal land sales.

The government issued a final warning to village heads involved in the illegal sale of communal land. This intervention addresses a nationwide issue concerning land administration and governance. The warning emphasizes bypassing formal procedures for land allocation is unacceptable. Illegal land sales disrupt land tenure systems and dispossess community members. This practice causes disputes and instability. The government’s firm stance indicates a commitment to enforce land laws and protect communal resources. The warning is a "final" one, signaling stricter enforcement measures. The government explicitly warns against bypassing formal procedures.

The Jeere 2026-03-20  ·  stories

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