By A Correspondent
The administration of President Emmerson Mnangagwa is facing increasing pressure as it struggles to settle outstanding payments owed to pensioners.
This issue was brought to the forefront by Mbizo Constituency Member of Parliament, Honourable Corban Madzivanyika, who criticized the government’s failure to meet its financial obligations to retirees.
On Wednesday, Hon. Madzivanyika highlighted the severity of the situation, calling it a “serious eyesore” for the country. In a statement, he called on both the Ministry of Finance and the Insurance and Pensions Commission (IPEC) to take urgent action. He said:
“The plight of our pensioners is a serious eyesore! The Ministry of Finance and IPEC must urgently expedite this process instead of dodging questions. Our old men and women deserve adequate compensation that corresponds to the blameworthiness of the government and pension companies to enjoy it while the sun still shines, according to the Justice Smith Commission report of 2015.”
Hon. Madzivanyika’s comments reflect the frustrations of pensioners who have long been waiting for compensation that reflects the value of their contributions over the years. Despite repeated calls for action, both pensioners and concerned citizens continue to face delays, leaving many elderly Zimbabweans in financial distress.
The Justice Smith Commission report of 2015 recommended measures to address the pensioners’ issues, yet little progress has been made since its release. The MP’s appeal to expedite the compensation process emphasizes the urgency of resolving the situation before it worsens.
Pensioners, many of whom rely on these funds for their daily survival, are left in a state of uncertainty as the government struggles with financial constraints. The failure to address this issue is exacerbating the sense of neglect felt by Zimbabwe’s retired citizens.
As the pressure mounts on the Mnangagwa administration, the need for swift action on pension payments becomes more critical. Without prompt intervention, pensioners are left to face a grim reality of inadequate financial support in their twilight years.