Mnangagwa's govt accused of misleading public over tariff reductions

The government has been accused of misleading the public into believing that sweeping reductions in tariffs and fees across multiple sectors are already in effect, when in fact, they remain legally inoperative two months on.

Cabinet had recently announced broad reductions covering 12 sectors, including a 50% cut in vehicle parking fees, towing and clamping penalties, and a drastic reduction in vehicle number plate costs from US$500 to US$50. Other measures included the scrapping of the US$23 000 duty on transit fuel and promises to streamline licensing processes.

However, Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi confirmed that the announced changes have not yet been gazetted, meaning they carry no legal force.

"They are preparing the required statutory instruments (SIs) to put these changes into effect," Ziyambi said, adding that local authorities must first be consulted for compliance.

The lack of gazetting has caused confusion among residents and businesses, with some accusing authorities of ignoring government directives. "People are coming to our offices insisting that fees were reduced," said a town clerk who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Legal experts emphasise that tariff reductions cannot take effect until published in law. A Harare-based lawyer said, "This is a classic case of the government playing to the gallery. You cannot implement or benefit from a tariff reduction that doesn't exist in law."

Economic analysts warned that premature announcements risk eroding public trust. Godfrey Kanyenze, a Harare-based economist, said, "Announcing reforms that aren't ready damages credibility. There is a need for transparent and synchronised policy implementation across ministries."

Vince Musewe, an economist, added that urgent action is needed to reduce the cost of doing business and attract investment, noting that lack of coordination among government departments reflects poorly on policy consistency.

Citizens and businesses are now left uncertain which fees remain in force, highlighting the need for responsible communication and swift legal implementation of announced reforms.