Teachers’ union leader Obert Masaraure has blasted the recently announced 2024 budget, calling it an “extractive” attack on Zimbabweans and a sign of the government’s “war against the people.“
Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube’s ZWL$58.2 trillion budget, unveiled at the New Parliament Building, promises a 3.5% economic growth but comes with a slew of new and increased taxes, including fuel, sugar, tollgate, vehicle registration, passport fees, and even a mansion tax.
Masaraure, president of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union (ARTUZ), believes the budget prioritizes taxation over essential services like education.
“This budget is a declaration of war on Zimbabweans,” he told Bustop-TV.
“It’s designed to squeeze every penny out of them while neglecting crucial social services like education. The allocation falls far short of the 20% Dakar threshold, leaving free education a distant dream.“
While pensioners might see some relief with a taxable USD 300 monthly income, Masaraure argues it’s a meager gesture.
“Workers’ disposable income will shrink as this amount is taxed. Our demand remains USD 1,260 monthly salary. The incapacitation crisis won’t be solved by this budget.” He said.
