Govt allays fears of price hikes

Prosper Ndlovu Senior Reporter
THE Government and the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ) yesterday allayed fears of price increases on basic commodities and urged members of the public to remain calm. This follows speculative rumours that prices of basic commodities such as fuel and bread had increased following the announcement of Zanu-PF landslide victory in last week’s harmonised elections.

In an interview, CCZ executive director Ms Rosemary Siyachitema, said the consumer watchdog has conducted surveys across the country, which proved that such reports were unfounded.

She also said there was no basis for speculation on the country’s economic performance as everything was stable.
“We have received such reports and we have looked around  and found out that there is nothing like that. The cost of basic commodities remains stable.

“Members of the public should remain calm as there is no reason to panic. We have conducted our usual surveys and so far our basket is stable. There is no need for panic,” said Ms Siyachitema.

Responding to the same concern, newly elected Senator for Matabeleland North and outgoing Bulawayo Governor Cain Mathema warned businesses from unnecessary price increases.

“Businesses must not increase prices unnecessarily. Those who are doing that must stop it. We are in the middle of celebrating Zanu-PF victory and we do not want this nonsense of price increases,” said Governor Mathema.

“Why are they doing that? Is it because Zanu-PF has just won the elections? The people who are doing that should be part of the regime change agenda. We urge the authorities in charge of pricing to monitor that.”

Governor Mathema said a Zanu-PF Government would instill order in the economy and uphold consumer interests.
On Monday Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (Zera) also dispelled reports that fuel prices had gone up.

Some sections of the media had alleged petrol was now being sold for $1.70 per litre while diesel was said to be selling at $1.50 per litre.
There were also rumours that commuter omnibus fares would increase from the usual R5 while the price of a loaf of bread was said to have increased by 20 cents from $1.

Zera also ruled out any increase in the prices of fuel saying crude oil prices on the international market were stable.
The reports attributed the alleged price increase to results of last week’s elections that were resoundingly won by Zanu-PF.

Observers have said the speculative rumours on the country’s economy were instigated by MDC-T symphathisers who are bent on causing alarm and despondency after their party suffered a crushing defeat in last week’s poll.