Correspondent|President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s spokesperson George Charamba has dismissed reports that Zimra was holding on to dialysis equipment belonging to Mpilo Hospital in Bulawayo. 

Charamba said the equipment was long released after the provision of duty free certificates by the hospital to clear its movement. 

“This is plain untrue and  poor lies; the equipment has long been released after duty-free certificate was provided by relevant authorities. It is standard to withhold imported stuff until production of duty free certificate for tax exemption. The key thing is applying in time,” said Charamba.

Government came under fire after reports that Zimra was holding on to the donated equipment meant to save lives. 

The dialysis equipment  was donated by the International Society of Nephrology. 

Zimra demanded  £3000 to release the equipment meant for an ongoing training programme for doctors and nurses at the hospital.

“Whatever the purpose, documentation has to be provided for tax compliance. Don’t kick a fuss as if ignorance is an excuse. Find out beforehand. Government offices are within reach, not this cheap bad-mouthing of Government, Nxa!,” said a furious Charamba.