Staff Reporter

Bulawayo residents find themselves embroiled in discontent with the opposition-led Bulawayo City Council (BCC) following the recent passing of a resolution mandating that all rates be paid at a ratio of 80% to 20% in foreign and local currency, respectively.

This move has sparked concerns among citizens regarding potential financial strain, particularly for those reliant on local currency earnings.

"The council's decision to demand 80% of rates in foreign currency will only worsen the financial burden on us. The majority of us earn in local currency, and this move will only exacerbate our struggles, " lamented Sipho Ndlovu.

Moreover, residents fear that the resolution may hasten the demise of the local currency, as it diminishes its utility for settling bills and rates.

"If the local currency becomes obsolete for payments, it will lose its value altogether," warned Thandiwe Ncube, echoing the sentiments of many concerned residents.

Critics also argue that the resolution contradicts the country's laws and the existing multi-currency system, calling for Government intervention to ensure the BCC respects established monetary frameworks.

"This decision undermines the multi-currency system and sets a dangerous precedent," expressed Sikhululekile Moyo, urging authorities to intervene.

In a telephone interview with this publication, Winston Dube, Chairperson for The Bulawayo United Residents Association (BURA), conveyed his dismay, accusing the council of neglecting the less privileged.

 "The council's move demonstrates a disconnect from the economic realities faced by the majority. It promotes elitism at the expense of the everyday citizen's struggles,” he asserted.

Efforts to obtain a comment from BCC Town Clerk, Christopher Dube, proved futile as he did not respond to WhatsApp messages sent to his phone at the time of publication.

However, the resolution's implementation has heightened tensions within the community, as residents grapple with the prospect of increased financial strain and the erosion of the local currency's value.

With voices of discontent growing louder, the future implications of the council's decision remain uncertain, raising questions about its potential impact on the economic landscape of Bulawayo.

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