By Tendai Matunhu

The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has dismissed as fake an article published by Business Times in their 29 August to 4 September edition alleging that RBZ officials were involved in gold smuggling and underhand dealings.

The published article was headlined, ‘Bosses implicated in gold smuggling’ with the subtitle ‘RBZ, two Harare businessmen behind intricate underhand dealing.’

In a press statement released by RBZ on 30 August, Central bank said the article was merely meant to tarnish its image.

“The RBZ wishes to advise members of the public that the article alleging involvement of Bank officials in gold smuggling and underhand dealings is mischievous, false and malicious. The Bank dismisses the false article with contempt it deserves.

“The article is well calculated to tarnish the image of the Bank, and ultimately that of the country and its leadership and cause unnecessary panic and despondence through misinforming the public,” reads part of the statement.

The RBZ, however, noted that the Business Times had since retracted the article, urging members to approach the Bank to seek clarification regarding issues of such nature before publishing them.

“The Bank notes, with concern, that the article is yet another piece of fake news which is meant to harass and instil fear in the Bank from carrying out its mandate of price and financial stability.

“The Bank has taken note with satisfaction that the Business Times has retracted its damaging article. Going forward, the Bank would like to advise all stakeholders, including distinguished members of press, to approach the Bank to seek clarification regarding such matters to avoid character assassination through uninformed assertions,” said RBZ.

Meanwhile, RBZ continues to support the Gold Development Initiative to enhance gold production in the country. To date Fidelity and Refiners have disbursed ZWL$130mil to the gold sector.