admin
MDC-T’s proposed policy advocates growing the businesses first to create jobs and not ownership.
MDC-T national spokesperson Mr Douglas Mwonzora confirmed the policy.
However, he could not clarify how the inclusive Government would implement it.
“We will be launching our own initiative, the Jobs, Investment and Upliftment Programme,” he said.
“This initiative will involve unveiling a programme of action to create jobs in Zimbabwe through investment and upliftment and empowerment of Zimbabweans.”
Mr Mwonzora attacked the present indigenisation programme being pursued by the inclusive Government.
“Ours would be different from (Indigenisation, Youth Development and Empowerment Minister Saviour) Kasukuwere’s version of empowerment, which excludes other political parties,” he said.
“It doesn’t look at attracting investment and simply increases the risk factor of Zimbabwe.”
Mr Mwonzora said the policy will be launched soon by MDC-T leader Mr Morgan Tsvangirai, who is Prime Minister in the inclusive Government.
RELATED STORIES
Minister Kasukuwere said yesterday that Government will not be distracted by the MDC-T moves.
“That will come to naught and will not stop us from implementing the laws of this country,” he said.
“We are moving ahead with the policy as witnessed by the launch on Thursday of the community share ownership scheme and I urge all companies to comply with the law.”
President Mugabe launched the Mhondoro-Ngezi-Zvimba Community Share Ownership Trust on Thursday that will see the local communities acquiring 10 percent ownership in Zimplats.
Zimplats also gave the Mhondoro-Ngezi-Zvimba communities US$10 million to fund development in their areas.
Murowa Diamond Mining Company has also said it will release 51 percent shares to locals.
Government will also establish more than 100 other trusts in various parts of the country by the end of the year.
OWNERSHIP OR EMPLOYEMENT? JOIN THE DISCUSSION
The Act requires foreign firms with a capitalisation of over US$500 000 to transfer majority ownership to indigenous people.
The Act was passed by Parliament, with both MDC-T and Zanu-PF MPs, in the House of Assembly and Senate passing it.
Mr Mwonzora could not explain how other political parties will benefit from the MDC-T programme or how it will be integrated into Government policy.
He insisted that it will involve everyone.
“The modalities would be revealed when it is launched, but the implementation should be done by Government,” said Mr Mwonzora.
MDC-T has been criticising the empowerment policy although major mining firms and other multinational companies are making moves to comply with the regulations.
Mr Tsvangirai, who at some point supported the empowerment drive, made an about turn while in the United States last month, saying the policy would scare away investors.
Online Reporter