Ministry warns of lease cancellation for unpaid rentals

Nqobile Bhebhe,Zimpapers Writer

THE Ministry of Local Government and Public Works has issued a firm call to all Government employees residing in Ministry-owned residential properties to regularise their lease rental payments or risk forfeiting their leases.

In a notice, the Ministry said it is deeply concerned over a growing number of lessees defaulting on lease rentals and purchase instalments, a situation contributing to mounting arrears and financial strain on public resources.

“The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works is urging all Government employees residing in Ministry-owned residential properties to come forward with feasible payment plans to settle outstanding lease rentals and property purchase balances,” reads part of the notice.

Authorities underscored that public finance management regulations mandate strict enforcement of debt recovery and accountability for public revenue.

“The Ministry has noted with great concern a significant number of Lessees have defaulted on their lease payments, resulting in growing arrears. In accordance with Part V, Section 12 of the Public Finance Management Act and Section 49(2) of the Public Finance Management (Treasury Instructions), 2019, Accounting Officers are mandated to manage public revenue efficiently and ensure all Government debts are collected promptly,” the ministry added.

To offer relief and facilitate compliance, a grace period has been introduced, giving affected individuals until 30 September 2025 to approach the Ministry and submit acceptable payment proposals.

“To support recovery efforts and give tenants a fair opportunity to regularise their accounts, the Ministry is offering a grace period up to 30 September 2025 for affected individuals to approach the Ministry and submit realistic and acceptable payment plans,” said the Ministry.

Tenants who fail to respond within the stipulated timeframe face serious consequences, including automatic lease termination.

“Failure to comply within the stated time frame will result in the cancellation of lease agreements, in accordance with Section 22 of the signed Memorandum of Agreement, without further notice,” the Ministry warned.