Don’t force my hand, President Mnangagwa warns business

Harare, (New Ziana) – President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Friday issued his sternest warning yet to businesses unjustifiably increasing prices and charges frequently to profiteer, taking advantage of the 21-day Covid-19 lockdown which has disrupted some supply chains.

Addressing business leaders at a meeting, President Mnangagwa said the wanton, inconsiderate profiteering by business was close to forcing government’s hand to take drastic action against them.

The government declared a 21-day national lockdown, which began this week, as part of measures to curb the spread of Covid-19, which has claimed the life of one person, and infected eight others in the country.

The lockdown has caused some supply disruptions which some unscrupulous businesses were now taking advantage of to profiteer by hoarding commodities and hiking prices.

President Mnangagwa said this would not be tolerated, and government could be forced to take drastic action soon if it persisted.

“Those companies in the service sectors exempted from the lockdown, I am disappointed that some entities are taking advantage of this pandemic and are hiking prices. I appeal to you to have a human face, in the face of this pandemic,” he said.

“It is not necessary for you to push me to take measures against you.”

Industry and Commerce Minister, Sekai Nzenza said the price hikes, especially for essential commodities such as bread and mealie meal, were regrettable and government would begin to monitor prices.

But she said the government was still amenable to engaging business and other stakeholders to come to some understanding that did not prejudice any of the parties.

“We are willing to engage industry through the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe,” Nzenza said.

Tacitly admitting to businesses’ pricing transgressions, Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers Association, Denford Mutashu said it might be necessary for government to step in and regulate prices of key basic commodities.

He appealed for self-restraint among his members, saying: “I think at this particular time, no corporate should be looking at making a profit.”

President Mnangagwa briefed the business leaders on Covid-19, and all measures the government was taking to combat the pandemic, which has killed over 50 0000 worldwide and infected nearly one million others.

He said although the country had low infections, compared to other countries, it was important to prepare for a ‘worst case scenario.’

He appealed for support from business ranging from testing kits, thermo-scanners, protective clothing, ventilators and construction of isolation centres across the country.

On Thursday, the country launched a joint US$2.2 billion international humanitarian appeal for assistance, mainly for food aid in the wake of a devastating drought, and Covid-19.

“I appeal to you for assistance in this critical time for our nation. We are facing a life threatening pandemic which requires unity of purpose and a high level of patriotism from all of us to overcome,” President Mnangagwa told the business leaders.
New Ziana