Government should ensure decent pension payouts

The wage of sin is death and one reaps what he or she sows- these have been the adages that have made so many people in Zimbabwe and in Africa at large to invest much of their energy results i.e the hard earned monies through their working days, with some going for as far as over time in anticipation of having a bumper financial harvest that will sustain them after they have become weary or retired. However in Zimbabwe these anticipations have been turned into anticipations-that-never-were, as those expecting to reap what they sow, they have become more of an eye-sore to the government and what they are reaping after years of sowing is just but next to none, especially in this economy were the RTGS are devaluing every day.

After a long time investments by these old age with the view that one day they would just be able to access their money, all has gone in vain especially with the fact that those who control the pension funds have grown to be self-centered, selfish and egocentric so much so that accessing money by pensioners have become a torrid time ,with some spending nights sleeping outside the bank with the hope of accessing the money which is coming in small amounts that usually can only sustain bus fare considering that the majority is coming from rural areas, and with a family left behind expecting to survive from the pension As most of the young family members are unemployed. With this in mind, as a sane and rational government, action is needed to solve these challenges facing the pensioners which have been seen by both the blind and the dead.

Recognition of senior citizens who are on pension would and is going to be one of the major solutions that would curb the outcry that is becoming so loud like a war cry from the unconfident team. This means there is need for the government to cater for this group when it comes to their transport welfare. With the introduction of the ZUPCO as a government owned transport system, there is need for the government to provide free transport for these now “vulnerable” group that is existing in partial recognition by the government. The provision of transport will clearly reduce the burden of transport costs that are known to be chewing their hard earned and less provided pension by simply removing the psychological trauma of wanting to balance the money that can be easily calculated even by an ECD child.

Considering that the nation is going through an economic quagmire that might not give it the strength and capability to provide the pensioners with meaningful funds, it might be of paramount importance to introduce grocery allowance or tokens that will provide or make them have access to the basic food commodities that can sustain them for the month in addition to the so called money they are receiving. At most, the provision of groceries will at least reduce the burden that is supposed to be carried by the small amount they are receiving. Thus they will end up feeling recognized, since they do not need much but only need what will sustain them or simply what is basic.

More, so the increase or increment of their monthly dues or maintaining that same value but in US$, since some pension houses which have been invested by this pensioners are enjoying the proceeds of these old age. With all the investment that have been made by these pension funds in Zimbabwe using the proceeds from their labor, how come now that the pension funds like MIPF, NRZ, COMMUNICATIONS AND ALLIED INDUSTRY PENSION FUND as well as NSSA are failing to offer the pensioners the much needed US$ than the RTGS$ that has not been stable.

The Pensioners Voice seeks to ensure that NSSA restores the pensioners dignity in the society by paying decent pension payouts not the paltry $RTGS30 to $RTGS80 which they are receiving. NSSA is paying its executive more than $150000 a month in salaries and allowances yet it is busy abusing the pensioner who contributed to that luxury they enjoy with their money which they invested. As a pressure group advocating for decent pension payouts, we will not rest until pensioners are treated with dignity by NSSA and all Pension funds. The silence of IPEC on this serious matter is very disturbing.

Hence it becomes more pathetic that the government is failing to intervene as a way of respecting the patriotic and sane former workers, who have given all and now being stricken left, right, back and center with the hope that one day it will turn in their favor yet some of them have already crossed the borders. Hence, it’s my plea that the government should at least recognize this group. If the former head of state was given his pension in USD why not afford the same opportunity to our pensioners in Zimbabwe?

Linda T. Masarira
Pensioners Voice Convener

Perpetrators of domestic violence must face still penalties

Cases of domestic violence continue to increase in Zimbabwe and it is very worrisome as women continue to lose their lives in these cases. Just last week pictures went viral on  social media of a man who shot dead his wife and brother in law over a marriage dispute. Its rather unfortunate that our society seems to have normalized the abnormal by keeping silent on matters of domestic violence which continue to affect livelihoods on a daily basis.

I was shocked to learn today of the allegations levelled against Vice President Kembo Mohadi of domestic violence. If the allegations against him are proven to be true, VP Mohadi should do the honorable thing and resign from his position as Vice President of Zimbabwe. Leaders should lead by example and desist from any form of violence whether its domestic, political or social. We need leaders who lead by example and set an example that domestic violence is wrong and totally unacceptable.

Women continue to bear the brunt of domestic violence. Zimbabwe endorsed major international conventions and instruments by making them part of the laws of the land. The country instituted fundamental policies and legal provisions which in theory, offer women protection of their rights in society yet practically women continue to suffer and lose their lives to their spouses.

The Anti-domestic Violence Council should be more visible that is if it still exists. Cases of violence within homes continue to rise despite the enactment of the domestic violence law which has not been enforced to curb the vice.

The Domestic Violence Act conceptualised domestic violence as physical abuse, emotional, verbal and psychological abuse, economic abuse, malicious damage to property, the list is endless.

As women who fight against any form of gender based violence, we stand with Senator Tambudzani Mohadi and implore her to ensure that she receives justice. Justice delayed is justice denied. VP Mohadi is not above the law and we want to see the law taking precedence in this matter.

Cases of apparent leniency in the sentencing of male offenders convicted of violence often attract media attention suggesting that this type of violence is not being taken seriously by the Zimbabwe criminal justice agencies. Senator Mohadi should open a case of domestic violence and we will stand with her until she justice is done.

An injury to one woman is an injury to all women. Other women's organizations and pressure groups silence on this case is worrisome and an indicator of how polarized we are as a society to the extent that we can not call out to order offenders of women's rights. United we stand as women and divided we fall into oblivion. Be your sisters keeper.

In conclusion, the police should ensure that they restart robust awareness campaigns countrywide against domestic violence. ZWIPA urges people to desist from domestic violence and not to solve disputes through violent means.

Linda Tsungirirai Masarira-Kaingidza
Zimbabwe Women In Politics Alliance Director

Perpetrators of Domestic Violence should face stiff penalties

Cases of domestic violence continue to increase in Zimbabwe and it is very worrisome as women continue to lose their lives in these cases. Just last week pictures went viral on  social media of a man who shot dead his wife and brother in law over a marriage dispute. Its rather unfortunate that our society seems to have normalized the abnormal by keeping silent on matters of domestic violence which continue to affect livelihoods on a daily basis.

I was shocked to learn today of the allegations levelled against Vice President Kembo Mohadi of domestic violence. If the allegations against him are proven to be true, VP Mohadi should do the honorable thing and resign from his position as Vice President of Zimbabwe. Leaders should lead by example and desist from any form of violence whether its domestic, political or social. We need leaders who lead by example and set an example that domestic violence is wrong and totally unacceptable.

Women continue to bear the brunt of domestic violence. Zimbabwe endorsed major international conventions and instruments by making them part of the laws of the land. The country instituted fundamental policies and legal provisions which in theory, offer women protection of their rights in society yet practically women continue to suffer and lose their lives to their spouses.

The Anti-domestic Violence Council should be more visible that is if it still exists. Cases of violence within homes continue to rise despite the enactment of the domestic violence law which has not been enforced to curb the vice.

The Domestic Violence Act conceptualised domestic violence as physical abuse, emotional, verbal and psychological abuse, economic abuse, malicious damage to property, the list is endless.

As women who fight against any form of gender based violence, we stand with Senator Tambudzani Mohadi and implore her to ensure that she receives justice. Justice delayed is justice denied. VP Mohadi is not above the law and we want to see the law taking precedence in this matter.

Cases of apparent leniency in the sentencing of male offenders convicted of violence often attract media attention suggesting that this type of violence is not being taken seriously by the Zimbabwe criminal justice agencies. Senator Mohadi should open a case of domestic violence and we will stand with her until she justice is done.

An injury to one woman is an injury to all women. Other women's organizations and pressure groups silence on this case is worrisome and an indicator of how polarized we are as a society to the extent that we can not call out to order offenders of women's rights. United we stand as women and divided we fall into oblivion. Be your sisters keeper.

In conclusion, the police should ensure that they restart robust awareness campaigns countrywide against domestic violence. ZWIPA urges people to desist from domestic violence and not to solve disputes through violent means.

Linda Tsungirirai Masarira-Kaingidza
Zimbabwe Women In Politics Alliance Director

39 years of violence: Whither post-war trauma?

From the bottom of my heart...

I am deeply saddened and heartbroken by the current state of affairs in my country. Some of my erstwhile Comrades are congratulating Zimbabweans who engaged in violence yesterday saying it was long overdue. Violence begets violence. Freedom of speech should never infringe on other people's rights.

Zimbabwe attained its independence after a guerilla warfare second chimurenga war. At independence in 1980, government was occupied by war veterans who were still dealing with war trauma, some to date never got counselling. 19 years down the line Zimbabwe is still suffering from the effects of post war trauma, the only way ZanuPF government ever knew of dealing with conflict was through violence and silencing dissenting voices.

Since independence dissenting voices have been silenced using state militia, police and security agents. Zimbabweans went through horrendous encounters of the Gukurahundi massacres, land invasion violence, pre & post election violence since 2000, short sleeve, long sleeve in 2008, police brutality on activists since 1998-2018 and the now the masses have arisen to protest violently unarmed which is a recipe for disaster.

Whilst some progressive activists like myself, churches and other level headed civic society organizations have been preaching peace, unity and tolerance over the past two years, some malcontents within activists and political parties have been abusing their popularity by inciting violence.

Violence will further divide us and destroy us as a people. There is no resolution that will ever be achieved through violent conducts. Its rather unfortunate that when the elephants fight the grass suffers. Right now most of the casualties of yesterday's violence are innocent people who did not even take part in the violent protests. Those who called for the protests are sitting comfortably in safe places.

I am against any form of violence. Violence will always manifest, Zimbabwe is a broken nation because of multiple cycles of violence perpetrated on its people for decades We can't mend what is broken using violence. Violence will further tear us apart &further divide us. Now is the time my fellow brothers and sisters, father's and mothers to all work towards being Peace Makers.

We are all going through a tough phase as Zimbabweans and need to exercise restraint and to be tolerant of divergent views. It took 38 years to run down Zimbabwe and it is only foolhardy to expect our economy to bounce back overnight. No one deserves to die for other people's political egos.

I urge the church to continue praying for Zimbabwe and mediating between the political parties that are fighting for power. People shouldn't be made to suffer for one to continue questioning legitimacy. The government of the day should desist from descending violently on unarmed civilians, protestors should respect the law of this land and protest peacefully. Those in the diaspora should stop inciting violence in the comfort of their homes.

Now is the time for conflict resolution through dialogue, truth telling, repentance and reconciliation. Zimbabwe will not progress so long we are not united as a people in our diversity. Depolarization of our political economy is critical at this juncture. It is easy to destroy in our anger and frustrations but its so difficult to reconstruct and rebuild.

I implore the government to have mercy on the people of Zimbabwe who engaged in violent protests yesterday. Zimbabweans have suffered enough and most of them are living in abject poverty and destitution. A responsible government cares and protects for its citizens. Focus should be on development, production and reviving the economy of Zimbabwe for Zimbabweans.

God save Zimbabwe, Let's stop the violence and nurture love. We will get there someday.

Linda Tsungirirai Masarira
Pro-Development and Democracy Activist

New Year Reflections

Welcome to 2019, The Year of NOTHING, if you do NOTHING. People, especially the youths, must STOP IT! Stop blaming the government for your lack of innovation and everything negatively affecting you. Our lives are not made better by endless lamentations and complaining, yet with no orientation towards finding solutions. For how long shall we remain retired in bitterness and disgruntlement!

Our parents played their part in availing academic opportunities, not only to be job seekers but job creators.  Education prepared us for endless possibilities which  include but are not restricted to running our own businesses. There is so much we can do,  consultancy work, buying and selling, farming, writing books, music, arts, even a discipline in sports to earn income and make profits.

Kuda Musasiwa came up with "Fresh in the box" at a time when almost everyone thought it was impossible to start a business in Zimbabwe. Charity Jinya successfully launched the Nedbank brand in Zimbabwe during the same period, yet we have become obsessed with talking about erosion of buying power coupled with limited access to capital, lack of opportunities etc. Busisa Moyo is another example of a person whose business is thriving under harsh economic environment.

So, here is my personal note to you and I for 2019...
Stop asking what Zimbabwe can do for you and open your mind to the possibilities of what you can do for Zimbabwe.

Government problems are not your problems, stop personalizing them and focus on what makes your life better. Whilst you are busy lamenting about joblessness, someone is making money in the very same environment you are complaining about.

My New Year's resolutions

After my surgery, I am going to focus on farming, oh yes, farming. All my plans are on track. Though this seems taboo to many urban youths, I am going to play my part in my little corner of providing food security in Zimbabwe and producing for export. I refuse to be a negative commentator and I am going to focus on my strengths this year. Positivity is Livity!
In September 2018, I took time to introspect on how I have lived my life the past eighteen years, and realized that I missed so many opportunities. I smothered a lot of potential. Most of the complaining urbanites are people who did not plan for the future and lack the discipline to make use of the resources that they received in good times. I was part of the people that thought I must spend first then save the surplus. I have learnt the hard way that one must save first before expenditure because spending has no end.

After the chaotic land reform program, there was land redistribution and a call was made to apply for land. We were told not to get involved as it was a ZanuPF program which had nothing to do with opposition and our struggle for democracy. We attacked the land redistribution program and prided in being MDC tisina kana bag or investment yet our leaders went behind our backs and acquired land.

Whilst we were busy fighting each other because of different political orientations our leaders were busy having coffee and making million dollar business deals behind closed doors. The very people we hate each other for, are successful entrepreneurs and they own businesses in some cases in partnerships with those they call enemies in the public sphere!

My resolution in 2019 is to create and make money. There is too much cannibalism in this so called struggle in Zimbabwe. In short, no revolution has ever been led by the "haves" only when the "have not’s" are prepared to lead the struggle then we can talk of a real struggle not the commercialized struggle in Zimbabwe, which has impoverished the masses and created a very wide gap between the wealthy and the poor.
It is not a secret that the modern Parliamentarian in Zimbabwe sees his election victory as an opportunity for self enrichment. This is all clear as seen from the latest demands of our MPs of fancy and luxurious cars, unreality packages considering the harsh economic climate we are in, while some are advocating for austerity.

On the employment issue

The problem we have in Zimbabwe is the majority think a basic salary will emancipate you from poverty which is exactly the opposite. A salary will keep you in poverty and in a fake comfort zone. The salary is a bribe to frustrate your dream. The world we live in today, a salary is a seed which you should invest to run a business. Ever asked a question why you labour in vain for $300 which is not even sufficient to cover your day to day needs for a month?

If the unemployed graduates are afforded jobs and equal opportunities only a few  will make any meaningful progress in life because the rest will spend their capital with those spending their profits.
One of my brothers once shared this, "Japan has salt water and no minerals to talk about. They lost more people than we lost in all our Chimurenga’s. Every country under the sun has a Toyota vehicle that's sovereignty."

So we should learn to emulate best practices and use what we have as a nation to create wealth for Zimbabweans and stop being over reliant on donor funds. The people’s attitude plays a leading role in meaningful development of any progressive nation.

Instead of innovating and finding homegrown solutions to the quagmire we are facing as a nation, the poor, jobless and cashless waste their data bundles spreading Political Party Propaganda for the political elite who will be busy managing their businesses and making money whilst you are fixated on social media.

Where are our Engineers who can't even close a pothole?

Where are our pharmacists who can't make a simple pain killer?

Where are our Economists when we get into 2 decades of recession and our industries are closing to the extent that not just China but other African countries are seeing us as their warehouse and supermarket?

As we reflect on the journey we have travelled thus far, the truth needs to be told. We need to find ourselves as a people, forgive each other and reset the peoples agenda for the people by the people for posterity.

The rationale for our actions has to be centered on posterity and  empowerment for all Zimbabweans.

It's sad that Zimbabwe has more than fifty minerals yet our people survive on less than 1 US dollar a day and there is no political will to alleviate the struggles of the impoverished in our society. There is apparently no serious efforts to remedy this crisis.  We are blessed with vast arable land of which most of it is lying idle, because of greediness and the shameless accumulation of multiple farms by corrupt and uncouth politicians at the expense of the suffering masses in Zimbabwe.

Why are Zimbabweans starving when we have so much land and capacity to cultivate and feed our nation and beyond our borders?

We can't move forward like Japan or Rwanda because all our stories and discussions are centered on politics and political personalities.

The middle class was eroded and the situation seems bleak and hopeless. We need a paradigm shift of mindset. Think outside the box. Stop blaming other people for your problems and be solution oriented. Think along entrepreneurial lines!

In conclusion its not all about new year wishes, its about action. This year try to make it a habit to plan and execute. Do not stop at the religious; be realistic and take action. 2019 will not be a happy one if you don't share ideas!

I take time to register my deepest gratitude for all those who take their TIME and data to teach, encourage and share freely their ideas for the betterment of our beloved country Zimbabwe.

Listen to constructive criticism and do not hate the giver. Be grateful for the honest opinion. Without it you can't learn and surely can't improve. Remember that if you do nothing, expect nothing.

Linda Tsungirirai Masarira
Pro-Development Activist

Analysis on ZANU PF 2018 Conference Resolutions

As a Zimbabwean very much interested in the good governing of my country and the clear vision for what tomorrow must present, I have read the minutes of the ruling ZANU PF has to how they project the future of my and our beloved country. ‘Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, but that we are more powerful beyond measure’ –the quote by Marriane Williamson may be reflect that in as much as there is a course of partial darkness in our nation, we as ordinary Zimbabweans have the power to bring about light.

I have therefore taken it upon my self to give a brief analysis of the main points presented at their congress. May I highlight that this is my personal opinion as a Zimbabwean, and not a representation of any political party, activism agenda or any of the like. Suffice to say, some comparisons will be made to other political parties and social structures, however, this analysis still represents my personal thoughts. 

First and foremost, I would like to applaud the communications and information department for availing the summary of the ZANU PF conference resolutions as they are of national interest. I am in agreement with some resolutions and have serious reservations with some of the resolutions which I will critic laying objective facts with reasons presented therein.

1. Politics

Politics is not a game of angels and it therefore remains a game of who gets what ,when and how, more so, as usual a continuous struggle over scarce resources(positions, power and absolute power) From my point of view, I don't think it is necessary to be endorsing 2023 presidential candidate less than four months after the incumbent President ED Mnangagwa was sworn into office. It shows that there is something wrong with the way we do politics as a country as the same traits are manifesting in the MDC Alliance which gives a clear indication of how Zimbabwean politicians have the same thinking and more of political ignorance. Allow me to expound; Presidential candidature should be premised on merit, delivering promises made, good governance and clear developmental issues acknowledged. This politics of personalities and patronage and clientelism has brought us thus far and it’s a recipe for disaster and immature political sight. As a nation, it is time to advocate for at least an ideology on service delivery and good governance in addition to a result based approach, rather than a personality.

On restructuring their party and issuing electronic membership cards, that is a very good move for them. Any serious political party should start preparing its structures now for 2023 elections. In translating their constitution to all local languages shows an effort by ZANU PF to be holistically inclusive and if opposition is serious should consider doing the same otherwise they will be singing the rigging song again in 2023. The communication to the rural grassroots is essential to winning elections, as this has been a trend in Zimbabwe. Those who have ears have heard.

On their Secretary for Information and Publicity resolution, they copied MDC-T strategy which follows the same idea. The art of war advises that you study your opponents and it seems Zanu PF is keeping their eyes on the ball. There needs to be discipline on conveyance of official party position vis a vis personal opinions that is a very strategic move that will strengthen Zanu PF and will therefore weaken other political parties as it is the ruling party.

Audit party investments and look for new investment opportunities is also an applaudable point. That is where all opposition parties have lacked; they have no investment and always wait for donor funds to run their parties.

Any serious party that wants to contest Zanu PF should consider investing and making their own money rather than wait for donors who will call the shots and compromise our sovereignty and patriotism. Opposition should learn from best practices and invest; the art of war still refers here.

Establishment of own radio and television service that is smart and very strategic and the MDC-T is working on a similar project. If the ruling party manages to establish radio and television stations it is only fair that they should open up the airwaves to all interested parties/citizens/organisations in the country.

Democratization and opening of the air waves should be guaranteed to all who have the resources and capability, albeit with sound oversight regulatory authority. It would be interesting to note how the national broadcaster ZBC will be cast in this play.

2. Economics

I believe there is no sincerity to zero tolerance to corruption as we continue to see cosmetic arrests and acquittals. ED must be wary of going down as a failure if he fails to ensure punitive measures on those who are involved in corruption thus has failed him to walk the talk. Anti corruption drive must be non partisan, ZACC should not be used as a tool in ZANU-PF factional fights and aimed at corporates or citizens perceived not to be toeing their party line. Zimbabwe has to stamp out corruption and ensure that studies in ethical conduct are introduced. There is need fir a paradigm shift of mindset of all Zimbabweans to be responsible and ethical people with integrity. Zimbabwe needs responsible and accountable tax paying citizens, then tax revenue can cascade to capital, social and development projects.

Desperate situations call for desperate measures. His integrity will be judged by his ability to deal with the criminals surrounding him and that would make him a real politician not a political baby sitter. I would advise him to make unpopular moves of arresting all corrupt officials and have them sentenced and recover the externalized funds. That way he will gain favour with the fence sitting masses. We yet to see the legacy being restored as criminals are here, there and everywhere...
Farming inputs should distributed to all deserving farming citizens and organizations on a cost recovery basis not the current opaque and biased distribution. More transparency is required and funds to be revolving for continuous disbursement and growing the recipients’ to revive the agriculture sector.

Rehabilitation and modernization of all irrigation facilities in the country was long overdue as our country is primarily an agro based economy. I pray that this process will be expedited as we are already in the farming season and we have a lot of arable land lying idle yet we are failing to feed the nation. It is ironic that we have to import wheat, soya, etc. yet we have very fertile underutilized land. Transparency and fair distribution of farming inputs is a bit vague a point. Do they have the evaluation and monitoring framework of the distribution in place would be the first question I would ask?
Markets are very important. There is need to liberalize agricultural marketing and come up with commodity exchanges where market forces will prevail. More focus should be on land redistribution and productivity at this juncture. Government should prioritize removing price and market distortions in all sectors of the economy. The state should regulate and enable capital to flourish.

Ease of doing business to who? They need to make the company registration process easier and faster and increase the minimum threshold of the 2% electronic tax which has brought immense suffering and price hikes. Business is not only about foreign investors, but also the empowerment of local business folk.

NRZ yippee yay!  That I agree with 100% and as you may know the parastatal is close to home for me and remains a part of who I am. There is no way you can revive Zimbabwe's economy without reviving and rehabilitating NRZ. NRZ has always been the backbone of Zimbabwe's economy until they looted its USD coffers in 2008. Air Zim should be privatized because government of Zimbabwe has no capacity to recapitalize it. All other loss making parastatals should be weaned off.
Community based tourism I love and even had it in my manifesto for Harare Central Constituency this last election period. Its good for empowerment of communities, job creation and development. Seems ZANU PF has been doing a lot of homework lately and I hope it’s not all talk with no action as I have witnessed countless times before.

They should also focus on reengaging the locals as they have a lot of untapped organic intellect and solutions on what needs to be done to resuscitate our economy.

3. Historical

Focusing on historical issues as a resolution is not inspiring for a country in an economic crisis like ours. The ruling party is either oblivious of or incapable of solving the problems people are facing. A historical resolution at a time of economic stagnation is typical of narrow nationalism in response to economic failures.

I agree with the establishment of a liberation war museum, although I must highlight that history must not be eroded by propaganda and hegemony or pushing party agenda instead of recognizing everyone involved, despite their political orientation. The war of liberation was fought by different communities and all citizenry effort during the liberation struggle must not be jaundiced by the Mugabe/ ZANU-PF spin.  It’s critical to document the liberation heritage accurately and have the museum functioning as a tourist site and aiding in history education.

We can never run away from who we are. I am a proud African who feels we neglected our way of life as Zimbabweans and adopted too many foreign ways of worship and thanksgiving. Svikiro dzenyika dzofanirwa kutendwa ndokuti Nyika ichenurwe.
Everything of historical value to this land should be repatriated from the original Zimbabwe bird, the museum of London is making millions through tourism with our historical artifacts and bones of our spirit mediums which Zimbabwe should have been making.

4. Local Governance

Devolution of power is long overdue; it’s important to give credit where it is due. Government must make frantic efforts to harmonize the operations of the informal sector and local authorities by regularizing and formalizing the informal sector for the benefit of the SMEs who then can be assured of stable operations at the same time as this will enhance the revenue collection mechanism and gives room for the market to settle the economy from this sector which is key in boasting the treasury.

The Ministry of Local Government in conjunction with local authorities should draw up the framework for regularization of the informal sector and ensure implementation by all Local Authorities and should desist from absolute corruption hence with. It is critically important to have proper and smarter devolution, decentralization and de-concentration of power. All stake holders must have input. Layers of local governance need proper delineation and resourcing. Certain tax collection and rates collection by functions must be fully devolved to councils to fund local development with top up from the centre on a transparent calculation and allocation basis.

The question is when will the separate Provincial Councils be commencing their work? Why is it limited to Harare and Bulawayo when it is a constitutional provision for all provinces in Zimbabwe? How will the metropolitan council operate via a vis the City and Municipal councils in the conurbations. There is need for statutory and regulatory clarity. Transparency after the capacitation and public accountability of the funds availed is key on how they were used and visible development on the ground.

5. War Veterans, Women and Youth
Zimbabweans respect War Veterans, but they are now a major drain on the fiscus, their sense of unbridled entitlement needs to be curbed. For how long will the nation be held hostage and beholden to war vets.

The subject of War Veterans is becoming a tiresome one in all honesty; War Veterans have been beneficiaries of farms since the land invasion era. Zimbabwe is for every Zimbabwean and war veterans should stop abusing their war veteran status to keep on benefiting yet there are millions of youth who are productive and energetic who have no land and want to venture into farming. Allocation of land to war veterans may mean another mayhem and disruption of precarious agricultural sector.

War veterans should be considerate to the plight of suffering Zimbabweans and stop being greedy and selfish by wanting a life time benefit for a job that was done in patriotism. Their demand for the continuous payment of the job they did to liberate the nation will eventually dilute the concept of patriotism thereby making their involvement in the liberation struggle more of a paid job than patriotic nature. No one is more Zimbabwean than the other and I would suggest equitable distribution of land to women, youth and the vulnerable in society. Zimbabwe ndeyedu tose iyi! War vets went to fight for all Zimbabweans present then and the future which is now US and they should not deny us our pieces of land so that we also plug into the economic agenda of the country.

The 50/50 representation resolution, I agree with it 100% as it was long overdue. After alignment we expect implementation. What is the need of Proportional Representation if I may ask? I know I will get a lot of backlash by women in politics for this point, but before the usual tirade of insults first hear me out; Section 17 of the constitution expressly states that gender balance should be observed by all organs of the state, agencies of government at every level, private sector, etc. and section 2 of the constitution clearly states that, " any law, custom, practice or conduct that is inconsistent with it is invalid to the extent of the inconsistency."

Women should be pushing for full implementation of section 17 and 56 of the constitution and not crying for proportional representation which is grossly abused by political leaders and which they use to divide women in political parties and allocate those seats to their girlfriends or bootlickers. Women should be united on this issue of proportional representation seats as they have never benefitted the women's struggle or cause.

I am against the extension of PR seats as it is an oxymoron to advocate for gender equality and at the same time crying to be given special and preferential treatment in the guise of affirmative action. Had it been my choice I would prefer to have those PR seats for people with disability, youth and activists in different fields of expertise.

The National Youth Service program should not be a ZANU PF indoctrination machine but a program to teach youth on the importance of patriotism and developing ones country. Investing in national pride should not be a tool mechanised by politicians but rather an effort in promoting national pride without connotations of political affiliation.
I applaud the resolution of developing a special fund for students with disabilities, though I feel that as the ruling party they should also ensure that they build schools that are disability sensitive with disability access and education materials.
1.5m people in Zimbabwe live with disability and their needs must be prioritized. It could start by simply installing wheelchair ramps at all national education institutions. Ensuring availability of braille books and sign language at primary level could also be a good start.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ZANU PF seems to have clear objectives from a party perspective than at government and national level therefore making Zimbabwe for ZANU PFs rather than for Zimbabweans. l begin to think that maybe our problem is centered around the implementers. ED must focus on reshuffling or firing obstacles in the form of idle, useless, incompetent or corrupt personnel to take this country forward.

Zimbabwe needs an Office of Budget Responsibility and proper Fiscal Studies and Evaluation Office and mechanisms. We have so much potential as a nation to break all the barriers which are limiting economic growth if there is sufficient political will to restore Zimbabwe’s status as the breadbasket of Southern Africa.
I see much energy on Party investments and upgrade of their systems and my fear is whether the very same leadership will strike a balance between Party business and government development because without doubt I am sure for the party they always deliver and now they should deliver to their electorate and the people of Zimbabwe as the ruling party.

I believe that constructive criticism should be a positive starting point for us as Zimbabweans in rebuilding our nation. In my reorientation as a personality advocating for development and peace building, I reserve the right to express my ideas in an effort of building a Great Zimbabwe for us and future generations. I look forward to comment and feedback that aims to develop our motherland.

Linda T. Masarira
Pro Development Activist

Part 1: Patriarchal Dominance and Misogyny in Zimbabwe's Political Economy

Gender Perspective with Linda WekwaMasarira

Women in Zimbabwe constitute about 54% of the population of about 14 million people. In the just ended 2018 harmonized elections statistic compiled by Women In Politics Support Unit (WIPSU) indicate that there were 1176/5620 that were nominated to run for local government council seats yet only 261 women were actually elected as councillors out 1958 wards which is 13.3% of all the council seats. In 2013 we had 16.2% women councillors and this year's results indicate a drop of 2.9% of women Councillors in local government. A total of 243 women out of 1405 men were nominated as candidates and only 26 women were directly elected into parliament out of the 210 elective seats available in parliament. For the first time in Zimbabwes elections we had 4 women Presidential candidates who unfortunately suffered from negative publicity and didn't receive enough support from the electorate which still thinks that women are in capable of leading at Presidential level which is a narrative that needs to be changed. 54% of the people who registered to vote for women yet the final result of duly elected public officials show a completely different result in relation with population demographics due to a number of factors which include patriarchal dominance, ignorance on the importance of voting for women candidates, toxicity of the electoral playing field, polarization and manipulation of the political economy.

The new Constitution of Zimbabwe (2013) provides a strong legal framework for the promotion of gender equality and women empowerment at every level of governance in all institutions and agencies of government in Zimbabwe. Section 56 of the Constitution clearly provides legislation for Equality and non-discrimination of any person. Section 56(2) reads, "Women and men have the right to equal treatment, including the right to equal opportunities in political, economic, cultural and social spheres." Section 17 lays the provision of gender balance in Zimbabwean society and promotion of women participation by the state in all spheres on the basis of equality with men. Zimbabwe is also signatory to key regional and international human rights instruments such as the Committee on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and People's Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa (2003), SADC Protocol on Gender and Development yet we are still failing to comply with these international instruments and constitutional provisions in regards to gender equality. The state must take positive measures to rectify gender discrimination and imbalances resulting from past practices and policies and must take practical measure to ensure that women have equal opportunities and access to land and natural resources as enshrined in section 17 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe. Section 17 (1b) is continuously violated by the state, political parties, institutions and agencies of government as the fail to comply with its provision to ensure that both genders are equally represented and that women constitute at least half the membership of all commissions, elected and appointed governmental bodies established by the Constitution or any act of Parliament.

The Constitution of Zimbabwe remains supreme law of this land as enshrined in Section 2 which speaks to the superiority of the Constitution and how any law, practice, custom and conduct which is inconsistent with it is invalid to the extent of the inconsistency. It is high time women of Zimbabwe take legal action on the state and political parties for failure to adhere to constitutional provisions if we are truly sincere about the issue of gender equality. No one is above the law and no woman should continue being prejudiced of their rights because of selective application of the Constitution and patriarchal dominance. In short no one is more Zimbabwean than the other.

Women in Zimbabwe continue to face a myriad of challenges in the political, social and economic spheres Sue to historical marginalization, gender inequalities and imbalances. Harmful cultural and religious practices have negatively impacted on women's rights including power imbalances, patriarchal attitudes, ignorance of constitutional provisions in regard to gender equality and high levels of misogyny in the political economy. Women are still viewed as tokens in the political arena were they are used as pawns in a game of chess to settle cheap political scores and organize support for male chauvinistic leaders who hardly give women space at the dining table, which has led to moat women hardly occupying key decision making in political parties in Zimbabwe. The buck stops with women because there is nothing for women without women and no power is ever delivered on a silver platter. It's not easy to break barriers but its important for them to be broken for posterity so that the upcoming generation of young women leaders won't be verbally and sexually harassed and abused in political parties. If we do not fight to end abuse of women in political parties as women we will continue swimming in the same dark, murky waters.

The only party which made an attempt to achieve gender equality in its structures from the Standing Committee right down to the ward structures is the MDC-T led by Dr. Thokozani Khupe which has 7 women and 7 men including 40% youth in its standing committee, which is a first in Zimbabwe and Africa as a whole. Low representation of women in leadership and decision making positions has led to low levels of participation by women and manifestation of gender inequalities and imbalances. If women are not on the dining table they are definitely the menu. Strides should be made to ensure that more women occupy public leadership positions so as to tackle pertinent issues that affect women.

High prevalence of violence in the political terrain has posed major challenges to the advancement and empowerment of women. When women are  adequately represented in public and private spheres it leads to High maternal mortality rates and low representation of women issues in the August House and council chambers. Harare Hospital hasn't heard running water for years and the most affected are women and I have never had any MP raising that issue, even though I have protested about it and wrote about it several times. There is just lack of political will to ensure that the issue is rectified. Lack of running water affects the woman in labour more who is made to carry several buckets of water before delivery and these are issues that could be dealt it and accomplished once and for all if we had more women in Parliament. There are a lot of issues that need a woman's touch at policy level which include how to deal with high rates of child pregnancies and marriages, vulnerability of women to HIV, sexual reproductive rights, gender based violence, effects of climate change on women, lack of access to natural resources and police brutality on women. These are issues that need urgent attention and can only be raised by men with feminist lenses and we hardly have any of those in the 9th Parliament of Zimbabwe.

Most policies in Zimbabwe have remained gender blind and unresponsive to the needs of women. It is not a secret that lack of adherence to constitutional provisions and prioritization of gender issues has resulted in poverty, food insecurity, economic disenfranchisement of women and prostitution. A genuine desire to address these issues is needed from the State, all Executive, Legislative, Judicial institutions and all agencies of government right down to the common woman in Malipati. Lack of political will to address these challenges is the tragedy of Zimbabwean women. Women of Zimbabwe arise for posterity and save yourselves from doom.

ZanuPF fielded 23/210 women MP candidates instead of 105/210 as per section 17 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe. Failure of all political parties to fail to comply to constitutional provisions in section 17, 56 and 80 is a clear indication of lack of political will to adhere to the supreme law of this land. Failure to implement 50/50 gender representation is evident in the public sector and parastatal boards which have remained male dominated. There is need for legislation to compel political parties to comply with constitutional provisions in regard to gender balance.

Stiffer penalties should be put in place to deal with any organ government, political party, public, private or civic organizations that do not comply with constitutional provisions in regard to gender equality and full promotion of equal rights I'm our quest to be a truly Democratic, Transformational and Developmental State. There is no democracy without women. Women in political parties should stop being used as patriarchal gate keeper of misogynistic men who do not practice what they preach. It is folly to think that a political party that 7 women candidates out of 209 in the 2018 harmonized elections values women participation in politics. There is need for a paradigm shift of the mindsets of women if they truly want patriarchy to be untangled. It is a collective responsibility and not just the responsibility of women in politics.

The 2018 harmonized elections were characterized by high levels of misogyny, sexism, ageism, hate speech and intolerance of divergent views. I was not spares the vitriol of sexist and derogatory statements for exercising my constitutional right to freedom of assembly and association as enshrined in section 58 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe. I am an adult with a sane mind which makes critical independent decisions not based on artificial perceptions of manipulating the masses using 48 laws of power. My convictions led me to stand for the truth and nothing but the truth even if it made me unpopular and I always sleep with a good conscience knowing that I did what was right and stood firm in what I believe in. Every woman in politics  who has dared challenge the so called popular status quo of the then MDC Alliance was labelled "HURE", "TRAITOR" or "SELLOUT". It's rather unfortunate that for a country that prides itself in being very  educated, the levels of intolerance and misogyny exhibited this year speaks otherwise.

I have always been a strong advocate for gender justice, labour justice, constitutionalism, Socioeconomic and political rights and the levels of intolerance that was exhibited towards women who had divergent views from our erstwhile Comrades in the MDC Alliance was contrary to the values they speak of as a party that claims to be Democratic and failed to exercise internal democracy and support gender equality which is a tenet of democracy. It is rather unfortunate that instead of upholding democracy they manifested into ZanuPF culture of violence, intolerance and dictatorship.

In conclusion, it is imperative for the 9th Parliament to ensure that there is adequate electoral reform to address women representation issues, gender delimitation of constituencies and strict sanctions for hate speech and politically motivated violence towards women. There is need to start redefining how we do politics in Zimbabwe and to completely move away from politics of patronage and personalities. We need a more gender sensitive, inclusive and holistic  approach of selecting public officials with the capacity to develop and transform Zimbabwe.

Linda Tsungirirai Masarira
Zimbabwe Women In Politics Alliance