By Jasper Hloka

Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Professor Mthuli Ncube has moved to cushion workers by increasing their disposable income as he reviewed upwards the tax-free threshold from $350 to $700.

The review which depicts Government’s sincerity to the plight of the workers comes at a time when wages and salaries had remained stagnant despite the rise in prices of basic commodities.

Presenting the budget review themed “Building a Strong Foundation for Future Prosperity” Prof Ncube also indicated a rise in Government workers budget to $5.9 billion, a development economic analysts say is indicative of an imminent pay rise for the civil servants.

Economic analyst, Jabulani Mandimutsira, remarked that in essence, Government has moved to cushion the workers as it carries out austerity measures that are designed to put in place economic fundamentals that pave ways for a lucrative economy. “If you notice the increase in tax-free threshold and the increase in Government workers budget, it is clear that another pay rise is imminent for the civil servants,” said Mandimutsira.

The development, however, comes as a heavy blow for doomsayers who have been eyeing to manipulate Government workers and embark on demonstrations against Government over their living conditions.

Prof Ncube assured the nation that Government’s economic policies are on course and would work to the common good of every Zimbabwean in the foreseeable future.