The Zimbabwean government has reaffirmed its stance on non-governmental organizations (NGOs), labeling them a security threat and calling for stringent legislation to regulate their activities. Social Welfare Minister July Moyo criticized NGOs during a presentation at the Zimbabwe National Defence University, accusing them of attempting regime change and undermining national security.
Moyo’s remarks come amid the debate on the revised Private Voluntary Organisations (PVO) Amendment Bill in Parliament, a piece of legislation aimed at tightening control over NGOs. Despite being passed by both Houses last year, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has delayed signing the bill into law, citing the need for further refinement.
The minister accused NGOs of disguising their motives under the promotion of democracy, good governance, and human rights, asserting that such organizations must align with national interests. He emphasized that NGOs operating in Zimbabwe must have agreements with relevant ministries and receive Cabinet approval before commencing operations. Additionally, Moyo highlighted the role of the Private Voluntary Organisation Board in approving NGOs, stressing the importance of accountability and legitimacy in their operations to maintain trust among donors, beneficiaries, and the government.
However, the government’s position has sparked criticism from NGO representatives and human rights advocates. Marvelous Kumalo, a spokesperson for the Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiCZ), contested Moyo’s claims, arguing that NGOs have played crucial roles in addressing the country’s challenges, especially during natural disasters. Kumalo accused the government of misrepresenting NGOs’ objectives and intentions, expressing concern over the push for the PVOs Act amendment, which he views as an attempt to silence critical voices within civil society.
The proposed PVOs Amendment Bill has drawn international attention, with the United Nations urging President Mnangagwa not to ratify the bill due to fears it would significantly restrict civic freedoms and the right to freedom of association in Zimbabwe. Human rights defenders and civil society groups have echoed these concerns, warning of potential repercussions for democracy advocates should the bill become law.
As Zimbabwe grapples with the balance between national security and civil liberties, the debate over the PVOs Amendment Bill highlights the contentious relationship between the government and NGOs. With the government keen on regulating NGO activities and the civil sector fighting to preserve its autonomy and freedom of operation, the outcome of this legislative process will have profound implications for the country’s democratic space and the future of civil society in Zimbabwe.
