By Farai D Hove| ZANU PF President Emmerson Mnangagwa has threatened private businesses over the issue of overpricing.

Mnangagwa made his announcement as his deputy, Constantino Chiwenga labelled businesses “financial terrorists.”

The two’s verbal attacks came at a time when the government’s own parastatal NetOne was the first to increase data costs by 1,300%.

Delivering his May day message, Mnangagwa said: “The wanton, unjustified increases in prices are unpalatable and may point to some other sinister motives. This conduct must stop forthwith. My Government will not stand by and leave workers and the generality of our people at the mercy of a small group with rent seeking and profiteering tendencies.

“I urge you the workers of Zimbabwe, to remain resilient, hopeful and focused as we accelerate our determination and resolve to build the Zimbabwe we all want. I call for the protection of women against all forms of violence and abuse in the workplace. Let us also desist from child labour; foster fair and equal treatment; provide equal employment opportunities to all, including people living with disabilities.

“Grievances and differences must be settled through the correct procedures. As is the culture of the 2nd Republic, dialogue is key, hard honest work is fundamental and corruption of any kind must be exposed and reported.”