The uproar over the 2025 National Budget Proposals presented by Minister of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion, Professor Mthuli Ncube, has exposed a disturbing trend of selective outrage among opposition trolls, self-proclaimed prophets like Talent Chiwenga, and even some overzealous Varakashi.
These critics have vehemently opposed new taxation measures such as the sugar tax, food tax, betting tax, rent tax, anti-smuggling initiatives, and tax collection from profit-making ventures in churches and the construction industry. Ironically, this same group simultaneously demands improved service delivery from the government.
Taxation has been the cornerstone of governance since time immemorial. Even in biblical times, taxes were fundamental to societal functioning, as reflected in the phrase, “Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar.” Globally, governments rely on taxes to provide quality services, and Zimbabwe is no exception. Yet, some misguided individuals demand first-class services while opposing the very mechanisms that fund them. This hypocrisy is compounded by the argument that the government’s role is limited to creating a conducive environment for private enterprise. If that is the case, what is wrong with private enterprises, such as those in construction, contributing their fair share to the state’s coffers?
The opposition’s disdain for taxation extends even to opulent churches making millions through merchandise sales and extravagant lifestyles. These critics conveniently ignore the irony of attacking church leaders for their lavish homes, luxury cars, and hotels while simultaneously opposing taxes on their profits. Such criticism reflects a self-defeating attitude prevalent in Zimbabwe: an inexplicable resistance to the very measures that could sustain the nation’s development.
Globally, tax evasion is treated as a serious crime. In the United States, even high-profile figures like Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, faced conviction for federal tax evasion. Actor Wesley Snipes was famously jailed for failing to pay his taxes. If these individuals were not spared, why should Zimbabwe tolerate tax evaders who profit from its economy without contributing to its sustenance?
It is high time Zimbabwe adopted a tougher stance against tax evaders. Allowing individuals to make money, build cluster homes for rental income, or operate businesses without paying taxes is both criminal and selfish. Moreover, foreign investors building homes to accommodate associates while bypassing hotels undermine government revenue. Such practices must be curtailed to ensure fairness and equitable contribution to the economy.
The hypocrisy of the opposition’s outcry becomes even starker when considering their role in Zimbabwe’s current economic challenges. Many of these critics have long called for sanctions that closed lines of credit for the nation. With limited external funding, Zimbabwe must rely on internal resources, primarily taxes, to sustain itself. To benefit from the economy without contributing through taxation is nothing short of exploitation.
In conclusion, those opposing the government’s taxation measures must recognize the necessity of contributing to the nation’s development. The principle is simple: if one makes money within Zimbabwe’s economy, they must pay their dues. Service delivery, economic growth, and national stability hinge on a robust taxation system.
It is time for Zimbabwe to uphold the principle of “Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar” and hold tax evaders accountable.
