MDC Alliance senators have expressed disquiet over governments’ failure to find a lasting solution to the cash crisis, adding the situation has turned many into paupers as the bond note has significantly depreciated in value.
BY NQOBANI NDLOVU
The bond notes introduced in 2016 have failed to end the cash shortages. They have also taken a heavy fall against major currencies, sending prices of basics and other services skyrocketing beyond reach.
Contributing to a motion on the cash situation in the country last week, senators were unanimous that the never-ending cash crisis – further compounded by the loss of value of the bond note was untenable and had turned many people into paupers.
“It pains me as a senator to get a salary of $1 300 yet I cannot get the money from the banks. When I try to change it into United States dollars, I got only US$350 yet the minister can still say the bond note is equal to the United States dollar at a ratio of 1:1. This is impossible,” said Senator Lillian Timveos.
“It is time for government to really think because we cannot carry on and lie to the people of Zimbabwe to say a US dollar is equal to a bond note and it is one to one – it is not and it will never be until we decide that we now want to work… this issue is not a joke…”
Senator Voice Chinake weighed in, suggesting that maybe it was time a local currency was introduced to stem the crisis.
“I request that this issue be rectified; we are representatives of people who send us to present their grievances. We wish our government could heed to our calls and do something concerning this issue so that we can have our own currency that we work with here rather than continue to beg money from others,” said Chinake.
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Government has hinted on the need for a local currency, but maintains that the multi-currency system is still in place.
“Without money, Zimbabwe cannot go anywhere despite being a rich country. We are experiencing a cash crisis because there are some cash barons who are stashing the money away and using it for their own selfish gains.
“I do not know how the money in Zimbabwe is only found on the roads and where it is coming from remains a mystery,” argued Senator Esnath Rwambiwa.
