Analysts doubt if the $170 million shortfall can be found between now and March. Economist Innocent Makwiramiti expressed pessimism, given the low performance of the economy.
“The economy is in bad shape and I wonder where that money will come from. The government might have to rely on diamond sales. But with the lack of transparency, this is unlikely,” he said.
Political analyst John Makumbe said the cumbersome task of looking for financial resources for the referendum and election made the March date “unattainable”.
“The referendum is possible in February or March, but we need to collect more money before we can hold the election,” said Makumbe, adding that June or July was a more realistic date. Official statements from both the MDC-T and MDC-N concur with this view.
Finance Minister Tendai Biti said recently the government would send a begging bowl to international donor agencies. But Zanu (PF) spokesperson Rugare Gumbo has hinted that his party would not accept money from” Western nations who have imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe”.
“Of course it is Biti’s role to search for the funds but we will not accept dirty money,” he said.
“Why worry that we will not hold elections in March? The elections are definite in March and that’s it.”
Zanu (PF) activist Gabriel Chaibva dismissed claims by Biti that government does not have money as “a frivolous excuses” meant to push the MDC-Ts “agenda of delaying elections”.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission is on record saying they are ready for elections and awaiting for the government to release funds.
Post published in: News