Zim Opposition Criticises President On Economy

Zimbabwean opposition leader Nelson Chamisa has launched a scathing attack on President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s handling of the economic challenges facing the country. 

Inflation has spiked at 175 per cent, with many fearing a return to the hyperinflation of 2008. Meanwhile, power cuts are running for as many as 18 hours each day, further worsening prospects for an economic turnaround. The World Bank’s latest growth prediction for the country this year stood at -3 per cent.

"Prices of commodities have gone up, there is no money in the country, and bond notes are not money," Chamisa has stated.

His comments come ahead of a by-election in Lupane East constituency scheduled for August 3.

"Teachers are hungry, students are also hungry and the end results are anger and failure in the classrooms,” the opposition leader told supporters.

Chamisa also criticised the ruling Zanu-PF party for using food as a political weapon, alleging that threats had been made against local residents who supported the opposition in Saturday’s election.