Mnangagwa faces backlash over Vatican delegation

President Emmerson Mnangagwa's planned trip to the Vatican has drawn sharp criticism from citizens who accuse his administration of wasteful spending at a time when the country is grappling with economic hardships.

The President is expected to attend a high-profile event in Rome, accompanied by a large delegation of officials. Reports suggest the team includes ministers, aides, and other government representatives, a move that has angered many Zimbabweans.

Critics argue that the trip represents misplaced priorities, with millions of dollars being spent on travel while public hospitals face medicine shortages and civil servants continue to demand salary increases. Social media platforms have been awash with messages questioning the necessity of the trip and the size of the entourage.

"This is not the time for luxury foreign trips. Government should be focused on stabilising the economy and fixing our social services," said Harare resident Patience Goredema.

Government spokespersons defended the trip, saying it is an important diplomatic mission that will strengthen relations with the Vatican. However, observers say the optics are damaging at a time when citizens are struggling with the high cost of living.

The backlash is the latest in a series of controversies over government travel expenses, with similar criticism following Mnangagwa's recent trips to Asia and Europe.