MDC-T proposes a $9,000 salary cap for town clerks

MDC-T has proposed a $9 000 monthly salary cap for town clerks serving in various local authorities.

According to the party's policy document on urban local authorities launched on Thursday by local government secretary Eddie Cross, town clerks would also be required to sign two five-year contracts together with councils' chief executive officers.

The MDC-T controls most of the country's local authorities, both urban and rural.

Part of the document read: "Minimum wages for all councils will be set at the same level and related to those applying to the private sector and the civil service. The salary of the town clerk of Harare as the largest City in Zimbabwe will be set at $9 000 and all allowances that distort salary scales will be withdrawn.

 "Reduction in salaries will be carried out by negotiation in the works councils that manage this aspect at all councils".

 "They will be entitled to serve two five-year terms only. All senior council staff will be required to be politically neutral in terms of party affiliation as required by the new Constitution," the MDC-T said.

 Suspended Harare town clerk Tendai Mahachi was reportedly taking over $20 000 per month, excluding allowances.