We Must Be Realistic, There Are No Quick Fixes: Mnangagwa Responds To Mthuli Ncube's Tax Increase 

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reacted to the Fiscal Measures and Monetary Police statements presented last week by urging Zimbabweans to be patient and realistic. The president called for calm saying that the road ahead is long and sometimes bumpy but there is no other alternative. The statement seems to discredit reports which claimed that Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube imposed the 2 percent tax without consulting Mnangagwa. We publish the statement below in full.

Last week, Minister of Finance Mthuli Ncube, drawing on his vast experience as chief economist and vice president at the African Development Bank (AfDB), announced a series of measures to reform and revive our economy, and put us on the path to steady economic growth. Cognisant of the scale and urgency of the challenges facing us, our plan is bold and far-reaching, and will have the desired effect.

I have read your comments and understand the difficulties many face, and Government will do all in its power to minimise them. We are already taking the lead by cutting back on unnecessary spending. The only way to a stronger economy is to restructure, rebuild and reform. We must all be realistic. Whatever some may claim, there are no silver bullets or quick fixes. There is no need to panic, and Government is guaranteeing the availability of all essential commodities, including fuel. We are on a shared journey to a better and more secure future. The road is long, winding and at times bumpy, but there is no other way. This is the road to a middle-income economy, and if we travel it together, with patience and purpose, we will realise our vision.