SANCTIONS EVIL: DEP MIN
DEPUTY Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Lovemore Matuke has described sanctions as an “evil” which disrupts all forms of development.
He said sanctions had hindered the acquisition of crucial industrial machinery, mining equipment and medical drugs among key requirements for the country’s progress.
“Sanctions have crippled various business sectors and these sanctions have largely deterred international banks and firms from participating in commercial or financial transaction with Zimbabwe.
“These sanctions have negative effects on people and we should keep preaching the message that the western countries should stop their actions.
“With or without sanctions the Second Republic is progressing in national developmental policies,” he said. The senator cited infrastructural development programmes currently being implemented across the country.
“Look, the new dispensation under President Mnangagwa is constructing dams and roads using limited resources available.
“All citizens should join hands to campaign against illegal sanctions. We should also be thankful to SADC which is speaking with one voice calling for the removal of sanctions in Zimbabwe.
“Sanctions are a threat to the well-being of the people,” he added.
The Deputy Minister said sanctions must be lifted as they are causing unnecessary suffering to Zimbabweans.
“Ordinary people are being taken advantage of by those who are enjoyZimbabwe ing that is under sanctions.
“The younger generation should be constantly educated that Zimbabwean sanctions were imposed because of the correctional land redistribution programme.
“Our President should be hailed for opening political space, strengthening the rule of law, transparency, accountability and pushing the war against corruption. Sanctions must be removed because they affect movement of leadership which plays a critical role to look for greater business opportunities.
“When leaders fail to travel and attend business conferences it disturbs smooth running of a country.
“These sanctions have also closed doors for Zimbabwe and of international credit lines,” said Senator Matuke.
He added: “We need one another as we are now living in a global village thus our regional partners SADC are saying no to sanctions.
“Whilst we keep calling for the removal of sanctions, we ought to move on working hard as indicated by President Mnangagwa.
“President said we should learn to live within our own means as witnessed by several successful developmental projects being implemented.”