Staff Reporter

Dr. Jenfan Muswere, the Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services, has issued a statement clarifying the national budget process following criticism by the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party, which has been seen as trying to steer public attention away from its internal chaos.

Prominent CCC figures, some with previous Government experience during the Government of National Unity era, have been vocal in their criticism of the budget.

In response to the criticism, Dr. Muswere, issued a clarifying statement to dispel the opposition narrative that the budget presentation is the final document.

Dr. Muswere emphasised that the 2024 budget proposals are still undergoing parliamentary processes and are far from being finalised.

"The 2024 budget proposal is currently under parliamentary scrutiny. Parliament has established committees to integrate the legitimate concerns of Zimbabweans, the civic community, and business stakeholders," Dr. Muswere stated.

The Minister further explained the comprehensive nature of the budget process.

"The budget goes through multiple stages, considering estimated expenditures and expected income. The involvement of parliamentary committees ensures that the budget formulation is a stakeholder-driven process, including debates in both the National Assembly and the Senate."

Minister Muswere also highlighted that the budget proposals align with the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and the interests of the Zimbabwean people.

"The budget is built on the foundation of expected revenue inflows, expenditure priorities, and the Zimbabwean Constitution. We assure the public that the rights and freedoms of Zimbabweans will be upheld throughout the budget-making process," he added.

Dr. Muswere reassured citizens of the Government's commitment to a participatory approach in budget formulation, aiming to enhance the living standards of Zimbabweans.

However, the opposition's tactics in casting doubts over the budgetary process are not a new phenomenon.

Such strategies have been a part of the opposition's political approach since the inception of the Movement for Democratic Change and its subsequent internal divisions, leading to various offshoots.

In light of these developments, progressive Zimbabweans are encouraged to overlook the opposition's critical remarks and await the conclusion of the budget process.

The Government assures that the process will continue to its logical end, reflecting the collective input and aspirations of the Zimbabwean populace.