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Obert Masaraure, president of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ), said President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Wednesday should address the government’s plans to combat corruption, recover stolen public funds, release all political prisoners, and uphold the Constitution.
The SONA will be delivered in the context of a currency crisis, rising living costs amid low disposable incomes, and widespread hunger, among other pressing issues facing Zimbabweans. Said Masaraure (via <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200033069/mnangagwas-sona-headache">NewsDay)</a>:
<blockquote>
SONA (must) articulate current levels of corruption, how Zimbabwe is losing out, how to eliminate political interference from the fight against corruption, seizing assets and property procured from proceeds of corruption and strengthening State institutions to impartially deal with corruption.
A message on release of all political prisoners, steps towards enhancing judicial independence, an end to police brutality… adherence to the Constitution, scrapping of repressive laws and democratisation of the ballot.
</blockquote>
Mnangagwa is set to open the Second Session of the 10th Parliament today, where he will outline the legislative agenda and deliver his State of the Nation Address to a joint session of the National Assembly and Senate.
On Friday, the government was compelled to devalue the rapidly declining Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency, which had been in circulation for only five months, after it lost value against major currencies.
This decision resulted in reduced salaries and profit margins for businesses, evoking memories of the 2008 economic crisis that led to the abandonment of the local currency.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

President Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe will give a speech soon. People want him to talk about stopping corruption, freeing political prisoners, and following the rules. The country is facing problems like not having enough money, high prices, and many people going hungry. The government had to make the currency worth less because it was losing value. This made salaries and profits lower for businesses. The speech will also talk about making the courts fair, stopping police violence, and making the country more democratic.

Mnangagwa SONA Should Address Corruption, Release Of Political Prisoners - Masaraure

Obert Masaraure, president of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ), and 15 teachers arrested in January for an alleged unlawful gathering were acquitted by a Harare magistrate.
Masaraure and his co-accused appeared before Magistrate Ruth Moyo, who acquitted them on Wednesday, August 21.
The group faced charges of participating in a gathering with the intent to promote public violence, breaches of peace, or bigotry. They were represented by Takunda Nyambira and Alec Muchadehama.
Muchadehama submitted an application for discharge at the conclusion of the state’s case, arguing that prosecutors failed to establish a credible case against the teachers.
The court heard that on January 12, 2024, an informant and police officers from the police reaction group were patrolling Harare’s central business district when they received reports of an unlawful gathering at the National Social Security Authority complex, which houses the Public Service Commission offices.
It was alleged that police observed the accused possessing stones and weapons while singing and holding placards.
Upon seeing the police, the accused reportedly fled in different directions, leading to their eventual arrest.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Obert Masaraure, the president of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ), and 15 teachers were arrested in January for a gathering but are now free. The group was accused of inciting violence, but a magistrate decided they were innocent. Their lawyers argued that there wasn't enough evidence against them. The teachers were seen with stones and weapons, singing and holding signs, before running away from the police. Now, they are cleared of all charges and are back to their normal lives.

ARTUZ President Obert Masaraure And 15 Teachers Acquitted

Obert Masaraure, the president of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe’s dismissal was due to his unauthorised absence from duty for a continuous period exceeding 30 days, without having been granted leave of absence.
This is according to a termination letter dated May 3, 2024, addressed to Masaraure by the Mashonaland East Provincial Education Director, Anatoria Ncube
Masaraure was employed as a Chemistry teacher at Chemhanza High School in Hwedza district.
The letter indicates that Masaraure had been absent from work since 2019, and his termination was effective from May 24, 2019, the last day he reported for duty. Part of the letter reads:
<blockquote>
It has been noted that your salary was ceased after you failed to report for duty. You did not, thereafter, come forward to claim your salary or avail yourself to your head of office to advise why you had failed to report for duty. You have still not reported for work to date.
You were, thus, absent from duty for a continuous period in excess of 30 days without having been granted leave of absence.
</blockquote>
In a post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, Masaraure condemned his dismissal from his teaching position, claiming that he had been denied the right to be heard.
Masaraure has been a prominent and outspoken advocate for the rights of teachers in Zimbabwe, championing better working conditions and defending the independence of the education sector from political interference.
He has been a vocal critic of the government’s treatment of teachers, who have long grappled with issues like low salaries, inadequate resources, and poor working environments.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A teacher in Zimbabwe, Obert Masaraure, was fired for not coming to work for more than 30 days without permission. His termination letter said he didn't explain why he was absent. Masaraure was a Chemistry teacher at a high school. He has been fighting for better rights for teachers in Zimbabwe, like higher pay and better working conditions. He says he wasn't given a chance to explain before being fired. Masaraure is upset about losing his job and believes he was not treated fairly.

"Masaraure Fired For Unauthorised Absence From Duty"

Obert Masaraure, a prominent trade unionist and human rights activist, has been summarily dismissed from his position as a high school teacher.
Masaraure, who serves as the president of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ), disclosed his dismissal in a post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday. He said:
<blockquote>
Today I received a summary dismissal from my teaching post. The letter dated 30 March was pregnant with lies, but because no one accorded me the right to be heard they acted on falsehoods.
I have served the government since May 2014 and they chose to just terminate my contract.
It’s so heart-wrenching that we have a serious shortage of STEM teachers. Some of us are willing to serve under the difficult working conditions.
The ruling elites choose to invest anything and everything to block us from teaching. They are punishing learners not me. We won’t allow it
</blockquote>
Opposition politician Gift Ostallos Siziba condemned Masaraure’s dismissal, saying the trade unionist was merely a victim of his activism. Said Siziba:
<blockquote>
ARTUZ President Masaraure is a STEM teacher in a country that is losing teachers leaving the country due to poor remuneration.
The regime has expelled him without due process. This is the challenge with the regime in Harare. 
Instead of addressing the issues raised by the teachers and civil servants, it decides to punish their representatives. We have to wage a collective fight!
</blockquote>
Masaraure has been a prominent and outspoken advocate for the rights of teachers in Zimbabwe, championing better working conditions and defending the independence of the education sector from political interference.
He has been a vocal critic of the government’s treatment of teachers, who have long grappled with issues like low salaries, inadequate resources, and poor working environments.
Masaraure’s dismissal from his teaching position is widely seen as a retaliatory measure against his vocal activism and defence of human rights.
As a prominent trade unionist and civil society leader, he has been a thorn in the side of a government that has been accused of cracking down on dissent and suppressing the activities of independent organisations.
The summary nature of Masaraure’s termination, without due process, is likely to be interpreted as an attempt to silence a prominent critic and deter others from speaking out against the government’s policies and actions.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Obert Masaraure, a teacher and union leader, was fired from his job by the government in Zimbabwe. They did not give him a chance to defend himself. Many people think this happened because he speaks out for teachers' rights. The government is accused of trying to stop people from criticizing them. Masaraure was a strong voice for teachers who struggled with low pay and bad working conditions. This firing is seen as a way for the government to scare others from speaking up. Many people are upset about this unfair dismissal.

Govt Fires Rural Teachers' Union Leader Obert Masaraure From His Teaching Job

Obert Masaraure, the president of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ), has called on the government to improve the management and implementation of the Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM) programme.
In an interview with <a href="https://cite.org.zw/beam-fund-mismanagement-a-crisis-for-zimbabwean-schools/">CITE</a>, Masaraure highlighted concerns that the current BEAM administration is negatively impacting the day-to-day operations of schools.
Masaraure urged the government to disburse BEAM funds in a more timely manner and to deposit the monies directly into school accounts from the treasury.
He argued that the current practice of channelling BEAM funds through multiple government ministries creates loopholes for corruption and mishandling of the funds. He said:
<blockquote>
Unfortunately, BEAM has been reduced to a mere scheme used by the government to avoid providing state-funded education.
Why are we not having direct tuition grants for all learners paid directly to schools to benefit all learners?
There are many financial obligations that the government is failing to meet in terms of education service delivery.
Learners need sanitary pads in schools, and stationery, and learning institutions need funds to meet overhead expenses.
But we have a government notorious for not meeting its financial responsibilities due to corruption.
</blockquote>
Masaraure also said the funds allocated to schools are insufficient to meet demands, as the allocation falls significantly short of the recommendations outlined in the Dakar Declaration. He said:
<blockquote>
According to the Dakar declaration, we should be getting at least 20 per cent of the national budget and at least nine per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
But as it stands, we are only getting 17 per cent for the entirety of the education sector, tertiary education included.
He said the government should increase allocated funds and devolve education management to provincial levels. Said Masaraure:
As ARTUZ, we proposed a financing model that the government can adopt to ensure adequate financing in schools.
Primary and secondary schools must have their own allocation, and tertiary education must have its own. We should not be bundled together because our needs are different.
The government must also devolve the management of schools to provincial and regional levels.
Communities must have a say in how their schools are run. We cannot have everything centralized in Harare; this hampers service delivery for us.
</blockquote>
The government introduced BEAM in 2001 to support children from poor and vulnerable families to enrol and remain in primary and secondary school.
BEAM covers the payment of tuition fees, examination fees, and levies for eligible students from low-income households.
The programme targets orphans, children from child-headed households, those with disabilities, as well as children from chronically poor families who cannot afford school fees.
BEAM is administered by the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, in partnership with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education.
It aims to improve access to education and reduce dropout rates among vulnerable children who might otherwise be unable to attend school due to financial constraints.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A man named Masaraure thinks the government needs to manage a program called BEAM better. BEAM helps poor kids go to school by paying for things like fees. Masaraure wants the money to go straight to schools to avoid corruption. He thinks the government should give more money to schools and let the provinces manage schools. BEAM started in 2001 to help kids from poor families go to school. It pays for things like fees and helps kids who can't afford school. Masaraure wants the government to do better to help all kids have a good education.

BEAM A Government Scheme To Avoid State-Funded Education - Masaraure

Prominent trade union leader, Obert Masaraure was on Friday, 24 May, fined US$200 by the Harare Magistrates Court for posting a message on X (formerly Twitter) demanding the release of a trade union colleague.
Masaraure, who is the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union (ARTUZ) president was on Wednesday found guilty of defeating or obstructing the course of justice or alternatively inciting public violence by Magistrate Feresi Chakanyuka.
He was arrested for the offence on July 8, 2022, after he posted on the social media platform, demanding the release of fellow activist Robson Chere.
Chere had been arrested in connection with the mysterious death of ARTUZ member Roy Issa, who reportedly fell from the seventh floor of a Harare hotel.
An inquest into the death of Issa ruled out foul play. However, the Police reopened the case and filed murder charges against Masaraure and Chere.
The State proved that Masaraure wrote a statement published on X and the ARTUZ website, aimed at prejudicing his and Chere’s pending trial while inciting teachers’ union members and the public to commit violence.
Masaraure was remanded in custody and was initially scheduled for sentencing on Thursday morning at the Harare Magistrates Court before the delivery of the ruling was postponed to Friday (today).
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Masaraure Fined US$200 For Obstructing The Course Of Justice

Prominent trade union leader, Obert Masaraure has been convicted for posting a message on X (formerly Twitter) demanding the release of a trade union colleague, reported <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/artuz-leader-obert-masaraure-convicted-for-obstructing-justice/">ZimLive</a>.
Masaraure, who is the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union (ARTUZ) president was on Wednesday found guilty of defeating or obstructing the course of justice or alternatively inciting public violence.
He was arrested for the offence on July 8, 2022, after he posted on the social media platform, demanding the release of fellow activist Robson Chere.
Chere had been arrested in connection with the mysterious death of ARTUZ member Roy Issa, who reportedly fell from the seventh floor of a Harare hotel.
An inquest into the death of Issa ruled out foul play. However, the Police reopened the case and filed murder charges against Masaraure and Chere.
The State proved that Masaraure wrote a statement published on X and the ARTUZ website, aimed at prejudicing his and Chere’s pending trial while inciting teachers’ union members and the public to commit violence.
He was convicted by Harare magistrate Feresi Chakanyuka.
Masaraure was remanded in custody and was scheduled for sentencing on Thursday morning (today) at the Harare Magistrates Court.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Trade Unionist Obert Masaraure Convicted For Obstructing Justice

Civil servants have said funeral policies and medical aid contributions are taking up a large portion of their earnings, leaving them with little money for essential needs like food, rent, school fees, and transportation. Service providers for medical aid and funeral policies have been increasing their prices to protect themselves from losses caused by inflation and the rapid depreciation of the Zimbabwe dollar.
Civil servants, who recently asked the government to reconsider taxes on their US dollar salary component, are now facing a dire situation. Their COVID-19 allowances were converted into taxable earnings, but the heavy taxation has rendered the money meaningless.
In interviews with <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200023181/were-starving-govt-workers-cry">NewsDay</a>, civil servants expressed frustration with their employer for failing to alleviate the rising cost of living. The Chairperson of the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions, David Dzatsunga, said that deductions, especially for insurance and debts, are eating into the Zimbabwe dollar component of their salaries. Some workers are receiving figures that are less than their actual salaries after deductions. Dzatsunga was quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
The issue is that the RTGS component of our salaries is now getting eaten up by deductions, especially from insurance and debts.
All that is taking up a lot of our RTGS component to the extent that workers are getting figures which are actually minus their salaries after the deductions.
The situation as it stands is very critical and it requires that the employer really moves very quickly to meet up and resolve the situation.
</blockquote>
Teachers have accused funeral policy and medical aid companies of deducting substantial amounts from their already meagre wages without consulting them. Some members received notifications of deductions as high as ZWL$500,000 and above, while their Zimbabwe dollar component does not exceed ZWL$900,000. This leaves them with very little money.
Progressive Teachers Union Zimbabwe’s president, Takafira Zhou, highlighted that their members’ earnings are inadequate due to heavy taxation. He called for a basic salary of US$540, housing and transport allowances, and education support. He said:
<blockquote>
The current basic salary of US$300 is grossly inadequate considering that it is now taxed and suffers heavy deductions from medical aid and other deductions from teachers as responsible parents.
The best form of investment is in the education of pupils and those entrusted with the nurturing of the youths or pupils must be motivated so that they engineer a skill’s revolution that can foster development, innovation and dynamism so crucial for sustainable development of Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
Civil servants are urging the government to address their salaries and living conditions urgently. They emphasize the importance of investing in education and view the underpayment of teachers as a detriment to the country’s future development.
The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe’s president, Obert Masaraure, called on the government to treat the issue with urgency and encouraged civil servants to fight for their rights and dignity.
Zimbabwe is currently facing hyperinflation, making the cost of living unaffordable for many. Calls for dollarisation have grown, but the government has resisted, instead announcing plans to introduce a gold-backed currency.
In recent years, government employees regularly went on strike to push the government to restore their pre-October 2018 salaries. However, the government says it doesn’t have the financial capacity to pay them at least US$540. Workers believe that the government does have the means but chooses to prioritise other matters, such as buying expensive cars for traditional leaders, to secure their loyalty, particularly during elections. The government justifies these car purchases for chiefs and Members of Parliament (MPs) as part of their employment conditions.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Government Workers Struggle As Funeral Policies And Medical Aid Consume Earnings

The State has dropped charges against Obert Masaraure, the president of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ), for allegedly subverting a constitutionally elected government. These charges stemmed from nationwide demonstrations that took place in January 2019, following a hike in fuel prices by the government. Masaraure revealed on social media that the charges were dropped after he had already lost his job as a result. He expressed his frustration at having been subjected to torture and humiliation in front of his family. A post seen by Pindula News read:
<blockquote>
The State has finally dropped charges of Subverting a constitutionally elected government emanating from the January 2019 protests against hiking of fuel prices. I lost my job because of this ridiculous charge. I was heavily tortured &amp; humiliated in front of my family. Evil!
</blockquote>
Others say Masaraure must sue the state for damages caused by the charges.
The January 2019 protests in Zimbabwe were marked by civil unrest and riots, which were met with a violent response from the government. Several people lost their lives during the protests, with varying reports suggesting that at least five individuals died from gunshot wounds and beatings by the police and military.
The protests were triggered by an acute shortage of vehicle fuel across the country, with long queues of cars waiting for fuel. The government claimed that the shortage was artificially created by saboteurs and criminals. On January 12, President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced a significant increase in fuel prices. This decision was met with criticism, as it was expected to lead to a rise in the prices of other products as well.
The demonstrations intensified, with barricades and looting reported in different parts of the country. The government responded by deploying the army and police to contain the protests. Reports of door-to-door raids, assaults, and arrests of young men circulated during this time.
The government also imposed an internet blackout, blocking access to social media platforms and websites. This move was met with widespread condemnation, and it was later revealed that the government had indeed ordered the shutdown.
Amidst the protests, Pastor Evan Mawarire, a prominent activist, was also arrested on charges of inciting public violence. The government continued to arrest and detain individuals associated with the protests, leading to concerns about the denial of justice and human rights violations.
Following these events, President Mnangagwa expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue with other leaders to address the crisis faced by Zimbabwe.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Fuel Hike Protests: State Drop Charges Against Obert Masaraure

Zimbabweans have been urged to unite in calling for the unconditional release of former Zengeza West MP Job Sikhala who appeared in court on Wednesday.
Sikhala was found guilty of inciting public violence after spending more than 500 days in pre-trial detention following his arrest on 14 June 2022. He is now awaiting sentencing.
Job Sikhala Solidarity Movement co-ordinator Obert Masaraure implored all democracy campaigners to support the call for Sikhala’s release. Said Masaraure, as quoted by <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200022368/rally-behind-sikhala-citizens-urged">NewsDay</a>:
<blockquote>
We emphasise that citizens should maintain peace and unity in the face of injustice and extreme provocation from the regime in Harare. Our position remains that Job Sikhala is innocent and must be released.
Job Sikhala has remained unshaken by the shameless persecution; he has demonstrated unmatched resolve and an undying passion to fight for a better Zimbabwe.
Citizens have been left wondering, had Job Sikhala been free? Would he have remained silent in the face of the rigged August 23 elections?
Would he have remained silent when Tapfumaneyi Masaya was brutally murdered in Mabvuku?
To citizens, Sikhala is a symbol of resistance against authoritarianism, this makes him a thorn in the side of the regime.
We are hopeful that Sikhala will be exonerated and will be reunited with his family. Sikhala’s freedom will mark a new era in the history of Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
Sikhala was arrested while representing the family of the late Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activist Moreblessing Ali, who was murdered by Pius Mukandi, an alleged member from the Nyatsime area.
Mukandi, also known as Jamba, was on 20 December 2023 sentenced to 30 years imprisonment by High Court Judge Justice Esther Muremba for the murder of Ali on 24 May 2022.

Zimbabwean Citizens Urged To Rally Behind Job Sikhala

The president of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ), Obert Masaraure, has called on Zimbabweans to stage bus stop protests every Monday, demanding free education. He argues that the gazetted tuition fees are retrogressive and unconstitutional. He said every citizen and permanent resident of Zimbabwe has the right to basic state-funded education, as stated in the constitution. He called on Zimbabweans to stage bus stop protests every Monday, demanding free education.
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, led by Minister Torerayi Moyo, recently announced the fees for government schools, ranging from $5 to $20 per term, depending on the school’s location and density. The fees are specified in US dollars, but parents and guardians are allowed to pay in the local currency at the prevailing exchange rate on the payment date. Some parents argue that the economic situation makes it unfair to increase tuition fees, and they believe the government should have considered the current hardships faced by families. Tatenda Chekai, a parent with a child at Chancellor Junior Primary School in Mutare, spoke to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200021625/parents-protest-over-usd-fees">NewsDay:</a>
<blockquote>
We have since paid the tuition fees. There is nothing we can do because at the end of the day it is my child who will be disadvantaged.
It is, however, unfair for the government to increase the tuition fees because of the current economic situation. The increase is retrogressive and this is not expected from our government.
</blockquote>
Concerns have been raised about the burden of high taxes and levies, which were introduced in the 2024 budget, in addition to the increased tuition fees. Parents fear these measures will make their lives more difficult, especially for those living in rural areas affected by challenging weather conditions.
The government previously stated that implementing free education would take time. Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube explained that to fully transition to free education, the government needs to carefully assess the requirements, identify any gaps, and plan and implement activities that will ensure education access for every child. He emphasized that this process may take time, but the government is already taking significant steps to improve education access.
In 2020, President Emmerson Mnangagwa signed the Education Amendment Act into law. This law mandates the State to provide free basic education as stipulated in section 27 of the Constitution. This means that the government is legally obligated to ensure that every child has access to basic education without cost. Section 27 reads:
<blockquote>
The State must take all practical measures to promote (a) free compulsory basic education for children…
</blockquote>
For years, the government has been promising free basic education but has failed to implement the policy.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

ARTUZ Urges Zimbabweans To Stage Bus Stop Protests Every Monday Demanding Free Education

Teachers in Zimbabwe are protesting against the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) due to unpaid wages for their work as election officers during the 23-24 August 2023 elections. The teachers, who were engaged by ZEC to carry out various election-related duties, claim that they are being sent from office to office when they inquire about their payments.
This is not the first time that ZEC has clashed with teachers over non-payment for election-related work. Tapedza Zhou, the secretary-general of the Educators Union of Zimbabwe, has threatened legal action against ZEC. He told NewsDay:
<blockquote>
Last time, we warned ZEC against engaging teachers without contracts as this opened doors to abuse.
</blockquote>
Obert Masaraure, the leader of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe, accuses ZEC of taking teachers for granted, alleging that the electoral body has made promises but failed to fulfil them.
Manuel Nyawo, the chief executive of the Zimbabwe National Teachers Union, expressed his disappointment with ZEC’s “dishonesty”. He spoke to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200021200/teachers-clash-with-zec">NewsDay</a>:
<blockquote>
Such dishonest behaviour is uncalled for because it puts the name of President Emmerson Mnangagwa and ZANU PF into disrepute because ZEC acted on the instructions of the ZANU PF government that was and is still in power.
It’s a miscarriage of justice to see teachers being abused to this extent considering that they are struggling to survive with the little earnings they are getting in the form of salaries.
</blockquote>
ZEC frequently hires government workers as election officers. However, they are not paid in advance, which means they have to use their own money for expenses like food while carrying out their duties. Time is crucial, especially since election officers will receive their allowances in Zimbabwe dollars, which is constantly losing value. 
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Teachers Protesting Against ZEC Over Unpaid Wages For Work During August 2023 Elections

Workers have expressed dissatisfaction with the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/08/010/treasury-reviews-paye-and-personal-income-tax/">government’s recent review of the tax-free threshold</a>, which has been increased to $500,000 starting this month. They argue that there is nothing to celebrate because the majority of workers earn below that figure. The previous tax-free threshold was $91,666, with the highest marginal tax rate of 40% applicable to salaries of $15 million and above.
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Japhet_Moyo/">Japhet Moyo</a>, the secretary-general of the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Congress_of_Trade_Unions/">Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions</a>, criticised the government for ignoring the plight of the long-suffering workers. He stated that the new tax-free threshold fails to address the fundamental needs of workers and highlighted that anyone earning $500,000 is still below the poverty datum line. He told NewsDay:
<blockquote>
They have done absolutely nothing. The new tax-free threshold does nothing with regards to addressing the fundamental workers’ needs.
You cannot tax the poor. Anyone earning $500 000 with the prevailing market rate is earning below the poverty datum line.
</blockquote>
According to the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe, a family of six now requires $2.6 million per month to survive. Despite these rising costs, the average salary of the least-paid civil servants is $250,000, excluding US dollar allowances.
Various union representatives, including David Dzatsunga and Tecla Darangwe, expressed their disappointment with the review of tax brackets and called for an increase in salaries and a reduction in the tax-free threshold. They argued that the threshold should be indexed to the US dollar, considering its impact on the economy.
Obert Masaraure, the president of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe, criticized the review for not meeting their demands for US dollar salaries. He also raised concerns about the potential devaluation of the local currency after the elections.
Recent statistics indicate that the economy is moving towards dollarisation, with a significant portion of transactions, particularly for food purchases, being conducted in foreign currency. However, the government remains committed to the Zimdollar, despite calls for its abandonment.
A report by the Zimbabwe Coalition on Debt and Development emphasised the role of diaspora remittances in sustaining the economy, as many formal workers struggle to meet the poverty datum line.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Workers Dissatisfied With Government's Tax-Free Threshold Increase To $500,000

The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU)’s general council has suspended Obert Masaraure over alleged misconduct.
Masaraure is the president of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) an affiliate of ZCTU.
The suspension letter signed by ZCTU secretary-general Japhet Moyo reads:
<blockquote>
At its meeting held at Cresta Jameson Hotel on the 22nd of July 2023, the general council resolved to suspend Cde Obert Masaraure from the general council on allegations of misconduct emanating from the incidents that happened during the Workers’ Day commemorations at Dzivarasekwa Stadium on the 1st of May 2023.
A disciplinary process would be instituted as soon as possible to investigate the allegations levelled against him.
Meanwhile, ARTUZ [Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe] is requested to nominate his replacement in the general council.
</blockquote>
Masaraure on Monday confirmed the suspension to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200014439/masaraure-suspension-divides-zctu">NewsDay</a> but said he did not do anything wrong. He said:
<blockquote>
I have been suspended from the ZCTU general council for these speeches. I simply called for a general strike demanding US dollar salaries.
I further demanded freedom for (detained CCC Zengeza West MP) Job Sikhala and condemned corruption.
</blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Banks and Allied Workers Union (ZIBAWU) issued a statement condemning Masaraure’s suspension.
ZIBAWU said they believe Masaraure was being victimised for the speech he made on May Day as Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition spokesperson after ZCTU leaders tried to prevent him.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZCTU Suspends Obert Masaraure For Alleged Misconduct

Zimbabwe’s economic challenges, high inflation and the rising cost of living are driving civil servants and ordinary people to suicide.
The Amalgamated Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) last week said a deputy school head and mother of three, Miriam Manyarara, from Mwenezi District in the Masvingo Province took her own life due to “slave wages”.
Manyarara was reportedly found hanging in her house by colleagues after collecting her salary.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/africa/2023-06-26-zimbabwe-union-flags-mental-health-concern-due-to-economic-hardship/">TimesLive</a>, ARTUZ president Obert Masaraure said that teachers and civil servants are suffering in silence. He said:
<blockquote>
It is very unfortunate that we have a serious mental health crisis in Zimbabwe that is not being attended to.
We have a serious issue of underpayment which triggers mental health illness.
Unfortunately, we have teachers who are taking their lives, and police officers who are taking their lives.
They are underpaid and no one is paying attention to their urgent needs. People are suffering in silence and committing suicide.
As a union, we urge the government of the day to have policy interventions that can address the crisis and to pay teachers and other civil servants a living wage to enable them to deal with the challenges they face daily.
</blockquote>
Recently a police officer who had been taken to Parirenyatwa Hospital in Harare hanged himself after telling doctors his salary was too low to support his family.
There are 135 000 teachers employed in Zimbabwean public schools and they earn about ZWL$100 000 in Zimbabwe dollars and a monthly allowance of US$250.
Over the weekend, Public Service and Social Welfare Minister Paul Mavima said the Government is looking at giving public sector workers a new salary package to “cushion them from the rising cost of living”. He said:
<blockquote>
We are looking at all possibilities including effecting an increase of US dollars as well as a pay increase in local currency.
</blockquote>
Civil servants are demanding US$840 per month for the lowest-paid Government employee.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zim's Economic Challenges Driving Civil Servants To Suicide - Teachers' Union

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Obert_Masaraure/">Obert Masaraure</a>, the spokesperson for the Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiZC), says the sharp decline of the Zimbabwean dollar (ZWL) could be disastrous for rural communities, as they lack financial literacy.
Masaraure who is also the president of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) said many people in rural areas depend on savings from farming produce to survive, and with the ongoing devaluation of the ZWL, they are at risk of becoming impoverished.
He said the lack of financial knowledge among rural communities also makes them vulnerable to inflation and price fluctuations. The rising food prices ahead of the elections have made matters worse for the rural population. He said:
<blockquote>
People in rural areas survive on savings from farming produce. With the continuous ZWL devaluation, the rural community will be rendered impoverished. 
Rural communities are unable to make informed decisions to hedge their savings from the marauding inflation, which leaves them more vulnerable. They are not informed about the value of the ZWL against the greenback and some are selling wares at a loss.
</blockquote>
There are concerns <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/06/010/zanu-pf-officials-fear-economic-crisis-may-cost-election-seats/">within the ruling ZANU PF</a> that the state of the economy may have an impact on the outcome of the August 23 harmonised elections. This is particularly worrying since the rural population is the constituency where the party has the majority of its support. 
According to official reports, on June 14, 2023, the exchange rate of the Zimbabwean dollar (ZWL) to the United States dollar was ZWL$ 5,978. However, by June 20, 2023, the exchange rate had fallen to ZWL$ 6,926.5764 to the dollar. This represents a significant decline in the value of the ZWL against the US dollar within a short period. The depreciation of the Zimbabwean dollar is more severe on the black market, where the United States dollar is being sold at around ZWL$ 7,900. 
The rapid devaluation of the <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">Zimbabwean dollar</a> (ZWL$) in recent months has resulted in businesses increasing the prices of their goods and services. This development has affected many Zimbabweans, especially government workers who receive their salaries in the local currency. Despite the significant depreciation of the <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">Zimbabwe dollar</a>, the salaries of government workers have remained relatively unchanged. As a result, the depreciation of the currency has eroded the value of their salaries, leaving them worse off financially. This situation has caused significant concerns among government workers who are struggling to make ends meet due to rising costs of living. 
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Crisis In Zimbabwe Coalition Warns The Decline Of The ZWL Could Be Disastrous For Rural Areas

The Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiZC) has criticised President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Emmerson_Mnangagwa">Emmerson Mnangagwa</a> for labelling some local non-governmental organisations (NGOs) “rogue” and “surrogate entities“. Mnangagwa made the <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/be-wary-of-rouge-ngos-mnangagwa/">remarks during a speech</a> commemorating Zimbabwe’s 43 years of independence. Mnangagwa said:
<blockquote>
No voices, foreign or local, inclusive of rogue NGOs, should sow seeds of division and disharmony among us.
</blockquote>
The president’s remarks come as the ruling ZANU PF is trying to pass the <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/?s=pvo">Private Voluntary Organisations (PVO) Amendment Bill</a>, which local NGOs argue will enable the government to interfere in their affairs and restrict their activities. 
In response, CiZC defended the role of NGOs and accused Mnangagwa of trying to shift blame for Zimbabwe’s problems onto them, rather than taking responsibility for the government’s own failures.
A spokesperson for the Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiZC), <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Obert_Masaraure">Obert Masaraure</a>, criticized the President for engaging in a blame game and not acknowledging that the real problem facing the country was the inequality caused by a small group of privileged people looting national resources. He said:
<blockquote>
Massive looting of national wealth revealed in the Gold Mafia documentary and other previous publications is driving inequality.
</blockquote>
<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/?s=gold+mafia">Gold Mafia</a> is a documentary by Al Jazeera that allegedly exposes <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/?s=smuggling">gold smuggling and money laundering</a> within and around Zimbabwe.  <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/gold-mafia-grace-mugabe-accused-of-smuggling-diamonds-and-ivory/">Some prominent government officials</a> were implicated in the multi-million-dollar gold smuggling and money laundering racket.
Masaraure stated that inequality is the main cause of instability because the majority of people who are excluded demand a share of the national wealth that has been taken by a small minority for personal gain. He called on the President, who is accused of being involved in this looting, to revise the government’s economic model to benefit the majority instead of the few. He added that peace and stability will only be possible if national resources are distributed fairly.
Masaraure stated that the President’s comments were linked to his government’s attempts to restrict civil society organizations. He argued that the proposed PVO bill is an effort to silence civil society, which plays an important role in holding those in power accountable.
Masaraure, who is also the president of ARTUZ, vowed that CiZC will continue to fight for good governance, in accordance with the national constitution, regardless of the government’s attempts to restrict their activities.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

CiZC Criticises President Mnangagwa For Labelling NGOs "Rogue"

The Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiZC) has condemned the government’s decision to de-register 291 private voluntary organisations (PVOs).
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Paul Mavima said the PVOs were deregistered for different reasons but mainly because of their failure to submit audited financial statements.
CiZC spokesperson Obert Masaraure said the development will result in job losses and this will have a negative impact on livelihoods. Masaraure said:
<blockquote>
This is quite an unfortunate development that will negatively impact the lives of ordinary citizens; especially given the fact that most of these organisations are working in the field of social welfare.
We also have to be alive of the negative economic impacts of this move and the fact that jobs will be lost, and again this will impact negatively on livelihoods.
Government should consider the welfare of the suffering masses before implementing decisions that impact on people’s welfare.
We would also like to highlight the fact that the push to amend the PVOs Act is a sure sign that the government is determined to close down operating space for civil society organisations.
Government is keen to instill fear into civil society organisations that are undertaking their genuine role of holding the government to account.
We implore the government to respect the work of civil society organisations and to recognise their huge contribution to the strengthening of democracy, good governance and economic prosperity.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum executive director Musa Kika urged civil society organisations (CSOs) to comply with the requirements of the law to avoid being de-registered. He said:
<blockquote>
Information gathered by NANGO regarding the motivation and reasons for deregistration is mainly failure to comply with the PVO Act (17:05) Section 5(e), which requires PVOs to submit annual returns (audited financial reports and annual narrative reports) of which failure to submit these for three consecutive years may result in your certificate being terminated.
We urge all our members not to panic. However, we encourage all PVOs to submit their returns annually as a compliance requirement in order to avoid any risk of being deregistered.
</blockquote>
The de-registered organisations were ordered to surrender their certificates of operation to the government. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200006534/outrage-as-govt-deregisters-291-pvos">NewsDay</a>

Crisis In Zimbabwe Coalition Denounces Govt's Decision To De-register 291 PVOs

The Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiZC) has called for credible electoral processes, including the delimitation of electoral boundaries, to ensure that the 2023 elections are free and fair.
Speaking during an election resource centre-hosted delimitation meeting in Harare on Saturday, CiZC spokesperson Obert Masaure claimed that the upcoming elections have already been rigged in favour of ZANU PF. He said:
<blockquote>
Are we going to sheepishly submit ourselves to an election when we know that these are flawed processes?
People are going to say no let’s rationalise and allow this process to go. Allow an election that has already been rigged?
We all know that everything is pointing toward rigging the elections. We have a State media which remains biased and a military factor as well.
Why are we participating? Are we doing it in the sense that we want development and democracy in Zimbabwe?
If we want democracy we have to say enough is enough and get to a point where citizens say away with this delimitation process.
We will go to an election when the voters roll and the State media is accessible to all players and when the military is no longer part of our politics.
These reforms are serious and must be done. We, therefore, submit that Zimbabwe isn’t ready for elections and we urge those who want to participate in the process to call for credible electoral processes.
</blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Democracy Institute (ZDI) also alleged, in its January 13, 2022 review paper titled: Zec Delimitation Report: Electoral Rigmarole and Elite Discohesion accused the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) of gerrymandering to benefit ZANU PF.
Gerrymandering is the manipulation of the boundaries of (an electoral constituency) so as to favour one party. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200006219/elections-already-rigged-csos">NewsDay</a>

2023 Elections Already Rigged - CiZC

Teachers have written to the government requesting a meeting over salaries with the hope that they will get a rescue package before schools open for the first term of 2023 on Monday 09 January.
The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Progressive_Teachers_Union_of_Zimbabwe">Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ)</a> said it would deliver a letter to the Public Service Commission (PSC) this Tuesday demanding an urgent meeting to discuss salary issues.
PTUZ president <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Takavafira_Zhou">Takavafira Zhou</a> told NewsDay:
<blockquote>
We have written a letter today (yesterday) to the PSC requesting an urgent meeting before the end of this week to solve our grievances, and we will deliver it today.
The most important thing is to resolve the issue of salaries and conditions of service because no one can turn up for work using an eroded December salary. We have hinted at getting a rescue package before schools open and it is our hope that they will agree to our pleas.
</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Amalgamated_Rural_Teachers_Union_of_Zimbabwe">Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ)</a> president <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Obert_Masaraure">Obert Masaraure</a> said they had resolved to go on strike when schools open next week. He is cited by NewsDay as saying:
<blockquote>
(Finance minister) <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mthuli_Ncube">Mthuli Ncube</a> has killed all the hope for a successful opening of schools for the first term of 2023. The teachers remain trapped in the challenges of 2022.
We conducted a strike ballot asking teachers to decide whether they wanted to go back to work under the current salary structure. 99% of the 52 340 teachers who have participated so far are in favour of going on strike.
We are engaging other unions to see if it’s possible to go on a united nationwide strike. If union bureaucrats choose not to participate, we will be engaging in a high impact collective action led from below by the teachers themselves.
</blockquote>
Ncube recently said the government had “tried its best” to improve the welfare of teachers and other civil servants given the circumstances.
In a statement, Zimbabwe National Union of School Heads secretary-general Munyaradzi Majoni said educators want to return to work, but need more pay to sustain themselves.
Workers have over the years demanded US$540 or better.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Teachers "Hope" To Get A Rescue Package Before Schools Open

Unions representing teachers Wednesday said the salary issue is urgent and should be resolved before schools reopen in the new year.
Their remarks come after Finance and Economic Development Minister, Professor <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mthuli_Ncube">Mthuli Ncube</a> said the government wouldn’t raise salaries as demanded by civil servants adding that the government tried its best to improve the salaries given the circumstances.
Public sector workers want pay hikes and have<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/teacher-arrested-for-posting-whatsapp-message-complaining-about-poor-salaries/"> spent the past three years</a> <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/teacher-arrested-for-posting-whatsapp-message-complaining-about-poor-salaries/">calling on the government to pay them their pre-October 2018 United States dollar salaries of around US$540.</a>
Throughout 2022, civil servants have been demanding a pay hike. Yesterday, some teachers’ unions said the parallel market rate was now $1 100 to US$1, which called for Ncube to pay teachers in US$.
Zimbabwe Teachers Association president Richard Gundani said it was unfortunate that Ncube was claiming that civil servants were well paid. He told NewsDay:
<blockquote>
That statement is inaccurate; he should have said since I cannot pay them — they must stop going to work. This thing is always two-fold because when people go to work they get a salary, which is an enabler for them to continue to go to work. Coming into the new year, the salary issue is urgent and must be resolved to ensure good service delivery. The minister must know that service delivery must not be compromised. His statement that he has already incentivised civil servants is very unfortunate.
</blockquote>
Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe president Obert Masaraure said there is likely to be a massive brain drain if the government does not pay teachers a living wage.
Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe secretary-general Raymond Majongwe said the finance minister must use the surplus he “boasts of every time” to pay “the poor civil servants.”
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

"Coming Into The New Year, The Salary Issue Is Urgent" - Teachers

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Obert_Masaraure">Obert Masaraure</a> who leads the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Amalgamated_Rural_Teachers_Union_of_Zimbabwe">Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ)</a> has urged fellow citizens to demand service delivery from the government saying they can’t defer their lives to the 2023 ballot when they will elect a new government.
He specifically mentioned the power crisis in Zimbabwe saying the southern African country has the potential to be a net exporter of power adding that citizens have to push authorities for that to happen. 
His remarks come after President Emmerson Mnangagwa Sunday stated that the <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/the-power-crisis-makes-us-unattractive-to-investments-president-mnangagwa/">power crisis was making Zimbabwe unattractive to potential investors</a> and that the government was working on finding solutions. 
In a Twitter thread seen by Pindula News, Masaraure said:
<blockquote>
We can’t defer our lives to the 2023 ballot. The gvt of the day must deliver services now. The electricity crisis must be solved now! Ruling elites are swimming in 500 000, 350 000 &amp; 40 000 but they can’t import electricity? Fellow Citizens let’s unite &amp; demand services from our gvt. 
Solutions to the electricity crisis are not very sophisticated, we have the potential to be net exporters of clean electricity. What we need is an active citizenry to hold duty-bearers accountable. If citizens unite and demand electricity this crisis will be a thing of the past.
The NDS1 set targets on power generation, giving alternatives to hydroelectric power in the context of climate change &amp; import substitution measures in face of erratic regional supplies. What has to be done is known &amp; well-documented. An active citizenry can force gvt to implement.
But we need a competent Energy Minister to lead the implementation of NDS1.<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Fortune_Chasi">@fortunechasi</a> was way better than the Soda guy.
</blockquote>
He rallied Zimbabweans to petition President Mnangagwa to fire Energy Minister <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Soda_Zhemu">Zhemu Soda</a> and “get us a competent Minister to implement NDS1.”
He said, “Soda can also save himself the Shame and just resign.”
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Masaraure Urges Zimbabweans To Demand Services Now, Not To "Defer Lives To 2023 Ballot"

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has unveiled a digital learning model for the benefit of learners in rural schools.
ARTUZ president Obert Masaraure said the model was being piloted in Binga District, in Matabeleland North Province. He said:
<blockquote>
This intervention ensures that we have uploaded all the content and all the books needed by learners and they have access to Wikipedia and access to all research materials from different academies created by teachers with videos on different subjects and all materials covered by the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council is there.
What this means is that when we commission the set of the server and other related materials to a particular school, they can connect their desktop to that local internet we would have created and they can be able to access these learning materials.
This is going to be a game changer, particularly in communities that have always been left out because even if there is no electricity, the server itself does not use much battery power.
It just needs five volts to set it running which means that even with a power bank, learners can be able to access the internet.
</blockquote>
Masaraure said the initiative is also meant to alleviate the challenges caused by a shortage of teachers and reading materials in many rural schools.
ARTUZ project technician Edwin Magaramombe said:
<blockquote>
I work with a volunteer organisation called Open Source Software, which campaigns on the idea that there is such a big digital divide across the world and this model will bridge the gap.
</blockquote>
At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, learners in rural schools missed out when e-learning was being promoted as an alternative to in-person classes which were suspended to curb the spread of the coronavirus. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200004465/artuz-unveils-learning-model-for-rural-schools">NewsDay</a>

ARTUZ Unveils Learning Model For Rural Schools

Some civil service unions have commended the government for awarding civil servants bonuses this year, according to <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/its-a-good-feeling-civil-servants-cheered-by-bonus/">H-Metro</a>, a state-run publication.
The Public Service Commission (PSC) indicated in a statement that the bonus will be paid out in two equal batches in November and December.
APEX Council of Zimbabwe president, David Dzatsunga, is quoted as having said workers were happy with the gesture. Dzatsunga reportedly said:
<blockquote>
The feeling is one of gratitude. We really appreciate this gesture, although we would have wanted more.
The generality of civil servants are happy as it’s better than previous years.
We believe this is the beginning and just a general gesture of appreciation. As usual, we expect more, but the Government has done well.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Nurses Association (ZNA) president, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Enock_Dongo">Enock Dongo</a> is also said to have said echoed Dzatsunga’s remarks. Dongo is cited as saying:
<blockquote>
Yes, this is a good development since everyone who worked during Covid-19 deserves to be thanked. It would have been best if the Government had given us yese ka one, but it will come in batches, which is still fine, but we wanted to buy zvinhu zvacho at once.
</blockquote>
Correspondence from a recent National Joint Negotiation Committee (NJNC) stated that the payment of the 2022 bonus for deputy director level and grades below will be in US dollars as 100% of gross pensionable emoluments (basic salary, transport and housing allowance. 
An additional US$200 will be paid to every employee as a special presidential bonus.
Meanwhile, Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (Artuz) president <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Obert_Masaraure">Obert Masaraure</a> recently said the <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/civil-servants-say-the-100-bonus-remains-paltry/">100% bonus remains paltry because it is 100% of a paltry income</a>. He added: 
<blockquote>
We insist that salaries should be adjusted to the pre-October 2018 level. 
</blockquote>
He also lamented the payment of bonuses in instalments saying the arrangement will further erode the purchasing power of the bonus. 
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Apex Council Says Civil Servants Are Happy To Receive Bonuses

Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiZC) spokesperson, Obert Masaraure, has likened ZANU PF to a rapist pastor who uses Sunday services to abuse congregants.
Masaraure, who is also the president of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ), says ZANU PF insists on general elections every five years in order to “rape” democracy. He said:
<blockquote>
On elections [ZANU PF] behaves like a rapist pastor, the pastor insists that church service is due every Sunday, but uses church service to rape.
ZANU-PF insists that elections are held every 5 yrs in line with the Constitution but uses the elections to “rape” democracy.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe has a history of disputed elections, with opposition political parties accusing ZANU PF of using the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) and other state institutions to rig elections.
In the last general elections, in 2018, the MDC Alliance candidate Nelson Chamisa refused to concede defeat to President Emmerson Mnangagwa alleging rigging.
Data analysts Team Pachedu say they have exposed a number of irregularities in the voters’ roll which has raised concern among opposition political parties.
According to Team Pachedu, ZEC has moved registered voters from their wards and constituencies without their consent.
Some political commentators have pointed out that the voters’ roll is prone to manipulation to give one party an advantage over others in elections.

Masaraure Likens ZANU PF To A "Rapist Pastor"

Teachers’ unions have rejected claims by ZANU PF that they were being funded by “hostile” embassies to destabilise the country’s education system.
A report by the ZANU PF central committee submitted to the party’s 7th National People’s Congress held recently claimed that teachers were being paid by “hostile” embassies to continue with strikes.
However, unions representing teachers have hit back at ZANU PF, saying the ruling party was trying to find a scapegoat for its alleged failures.
Over the past few years, teachers and other civil servants have been pressing the government to restore the pre-October 2018 salary of US$540.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200003165/teachers-hits-back-at-zanu-pf">NewsDay</a>, Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) president Obert Masaraure said:
<blockquote>
ZANU PF has no solutions to the education crisis and it is desperately trying to scapegoat unions for its failures.
At ARTUZ, we are seized with coming up with solutions to the education crisis. We recently published an alternative financing model for public education.
We hope the ruling party will engage with the document and we won’t be dragged into ZANU PF’s shadowboxing.
The country is desperate for leadership and the party should stop complaining about foreigners and start leading.
</blockquote>
Educators Union of Zimbabwe president Tafadzwa Munodawafa said ZANU PF was misinformed. Said Munodawafa:
<blockquote>
We do not know who misinforms ZANU PF as a party and we refuse to be drawn into politics.
We are not worried about who the ruling party of this country is. What we do, as unions, is to represent the issues that affect our members.
We are a professional body whose members simply want the employer to pay us a living wage and to stop inflicting labour rights abuses thereby setting the correct example to all employers in the industry in general.
My advice is that those responsible for information dissemination to all organisations, departments, or individuals on issues that concern educators have the responsibility of doing the proper thing as education is a sensitive nerve of any country.
It should be treated with utmost sincerity as we risk killing this profession for future generations.
The children we are teaching right now don’t desire to become teachers based on how the profession is being treated.
</blockquote>

ZANU PF Scapegoating Teachers - Unions

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has criticised ZANU PF for alleged political indoctrination of learners amid reports that they are being forced to participate in the ruling party’s political events.
Earlier this week, hundreds of learners across the country missed lessons after they were reportedly forced to take part in anti-sanctions marches.
ARTUZ president Obert Masaraure said learners should be in class preparing for examinations and not being abused by politicians. Said Masaraure:
<blockquote>
The ruling party is disrupting learners when they are supposed to be preparing for examinations; this is the same government that is presiding over examination leaks and a serious education crisis.
It is sad to note that the learners being abused are the sons and daughters of working people.
The sons and daughters of the abusers are insulated in elite private schools and exotic learning centres.
</blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Peace Project (ZPP) claimed that ZANU PF directed schools in Harare to mobilise pupils to take part in ant-sanctions marches on 25 October.
However, speaking to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200002614/zanu-pf-politicising-education">NewsDay</a>, Primary and Secondary Education ministry spokesperson Taungana Ndoro denied that pupils were forced to march against sanctions. He said:
<blockquote>
We have not ordered anyone, but its common cause that civic education on the matter has taken root, and its beginning to strongly espouse Unesco`s definition that children should be educated to become clear-thinking and enlightened citizens who participate in their society’s decisions.
Therefore, as we embrace our curriculum, it follows that without coercion, schools are bent on voluntarily holding anti-sanction events and expressing the impact they have on their society.
</blockquote>

"ZANU PF Abusing Children Of The Poor"

Civil servants have criticised the government’s decision to pay the annual bonuses based on workers’ performances with some saying the government is looking for a scapegoat to withhold their 13th cheque.
The Public Service Commission (PSC) has since issued a circular to line ministries stating that <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/govt-says-bonus-will-only-be-paid-based-on-performance-appraisal-reports/">future end-of-year bonuses will be performance-based – starting this year.</a>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/govt-says-bonus-will-only-be-paid-based-on-performance-appraisal-reports/">Govt Says Bonus Will ONLY Be Paid Based On Performance Appraisal Reports</a></li>
</ul>
Zimbabwe’s 350 000 civil servants have been paid a blanket end-of-year bonus all along. 
<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/workers-union-criticises-govt-for-adopting-performance-based-bonus-system/">Unions</a> have, however, protested, saying this was targeted at their members for going on strike to demand better salaries.
Earlier this year, the government introduced a “no-work no-pay” policy after civil servants downed tools protesting poor salaries and working conditions.
A number of teachers were also suspended.
Government workers have been engaged in periodic protests to demand the restoration of their pre-October 2018 salaries which were around US$540.
Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe president Obert Masaraure said public workers deserved the 13th cheque.
Zimbabwe Nurses Association (ZINA) president Enock Dongo appealed to President Emmerson Mnangagwa to intervene and ensure all State workers receive bonuses. He told NewsDay:
<blockquote>
It is not fair for government to come at the 11th hour and make decisions that affect its workers. We are expecting those bonuses next month but government has decided otherwise.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Professional Nurses Union secretary-general Douglas Chikobvu concurred with Dongo’s remarks adding:
<blockquote>
We strongly feel that the government might be trying to get a scapegoat to undercharge us and avoid paying our bonuses decently. Above all, there is nothing to smile at given that most workers are wallowing in abject poverty courtesy of the government measly wage.
</blockquote>
Organising secretary for Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions, Farai Chinosengwa said the policy might trigger sexual harassment at workplaces where women will be abused to get favourable performance appraisal reports.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Performance-based Bonuses: Civil Servants Say Govt Looking For Scapegoat To Withhold 13th Cheque

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Amalgamated_Rural_Teachers_Union_of_Zimbabwe">The Amalgamated Rural Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ)</a> has criticised the government for declaring that <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/govt-says-bonus-will-only-be-paid-based-on-performance-appraisal-reports/">future end-of-year bonuses will be performance-based – starting this year.</a>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/govt-says-bonus-will-only-be-paid-based-on-performance-appraisal-reports/">Govt Says Bonus Will ONLY Be Paid Based On Performance Appraisal Reports</a></li>
</ul>
Zimbabwe’s 350 000 civil servants have been paid a blanket end-of-year bonus all along. 
Speaking to ZimLive, ARTUZ president <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Obert_Masaraure">Obert Masaraure</a> expressed fear that the performance management system may be abused. He said:
<blockquote>
Performance appraisals should be an ongoing process which should never be weaponised in an attempt to prejudice workers.
All civil servants have legitimate expectations to receive bonuses. We have consulted teachers and we are advised that most teachers never sat down with the supervisors to set realistic goals. At the end of the day, appraisal forms are going to be ‘cooked.
</blockquote>
Government workers have since 2019 embarked on periodic industrial action demanding restoration of their pre-October 2018 salaries which were around US$540.
While chose to “go slow,” some were not even showing up for work citing incapacitation.
The adoption of the new performance appraisal might be a coercive tool to ensure that workers do not engage in protests.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Workers' Union Criticises Govt For Adopting Performance-based Bonus System

Teachers have said Finance and Economic Development Minister <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mthuli_Ncube">Mthuli Ncube</a> must allocate 20% of the 2023 national budget to the education sector in line with the Dakar Framework for Action.
In their 2023 pre-budget position paper to Parliament, teachers said the 13% allocated to the education ministry in 2022 was inadequate to solve problems bedevilling the sector.
Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) president <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Obert_Masaraure">Obert Masaraure</a> spoke to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200001543/teachers-demand-20-budget-allocation">NewsDay</a>:
<blockquote>
Underfunding has led to multiple crises in the learning sector such as unaffordable education, lack of resources and paltry salaries for teachers resulting in incapacitation, dilapidation of infrastructure and 50% of youths dropping out of school.
The 2022 $55,2 billion allocated to education translated to US$674 million using 2021 rates. This was a big drop from US$1,162 billion allocated in 2019, US$905 million in 2018, and US$803 million in 2017.
</blockquote>
Educators Union of Zimbabwe vice-president Tapedza Zhou said teachers’ salaries should be above a living wage.
His remarks were echoed by <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Teachers_Association_(ZIMTA)">Zimbabwe Teachers Association</a> secretary-general Goodwill Taderera who said the majority of teachers were living under the poverty datum line.
Teachers have since 2019 been calling upon the government to restore their pre-October 2018 salaries which were in the range of US$540.
The government says it has no capacity to pay all of them in United States Dollars.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

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