Civil Registry in standoff with workers

Parliament has been petitioned to intervene in a long-running dispute between the Civil Registry Department and its employees over the non-payment of allowances dating back more than two years.

The allowances were meant to compensate workers who participated in a nationwide blitz to register eligible citizens and issue documentation ahead of the 2023 general elections. Despite funds being allocated, most workers have yet to receive their full payments.

In May 2025, some staff received partial payments, but the outstanding balances remain unsettled. Workers were promised US$120 per day, amounting to US$3,600 each for the three-month exercise.

The petition, spearheaded by political activist Linda Masarira, accuses the Civil Registry Department of bias and discriminatory practices. It alleges that staff in Harare and Bulawayo were prioritised for full payment while those in other provinces were sidelined, despite performing the same duties under similar conditions.

"Official Treasury correspondence and Civil Registry records reveal that USD 1.1 million is available for this purpose, yet due to administrative bias and discriminatory practices, allowances remain unpaid," the petition reads.

It further argues that the non-payment of allowances violates Zimbabwe's labour laws. "Section 65 of the Constitution guarantees the right to fair labour practices and remuneration. Labour Act [Chapter 28:01] requires employers, including the State, to ensure prompt and full payment of wages and entitlements," the petition states.

Tensions have escalated following reports last month that the department sought Treasury approval to divert funds toward purchasing vehicles for senior officials - a move that infuriated workers still awaiting their dues.

The petition calls on Parliament to summon Registrar-General Henry Machiri and the Minister of Finance to explain the alleged discriminatory practices, poor governance, and unfair labour treatment of staff. It further demands Machiri's resignation, citing mismanagement and incompetence.

"Institute an inquiry into the governance of the Civil Registry Department to ensure transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct in the management of public resources," it adds.

With pressure now mounting in Parliament, the impasse has become another flashpoint in the ongoing debate over accountability and labour rights within public institutions.