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The National Assembly of Zimbabwe has passed the Private Voluntary Organisation (PVO) Amendment Bill, a move that has been met with both praise and significant concern from various stakeholders in the civil society sector.
Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi described the bill as revolutionary, asserting that it will redefine the governance of civic society in a manner that aligns with the nation’s identity.
However, the bill’s controversial nature has raised alarm among non-governmental organizations (NGOs), who fear it could restrict their operations and undermine their autonomy. In his address to the National Assembly, Minister Ziyambi commended legislators for their robust debate surrounding the PVO Amendment Bill.
“This is a historic moment where the Private Voluntary Organisations Bill has been passed by the National Assembly,” he stated, highlighting the legislation’s potential to ensure accountability and transparency in the operations of PVOs. “The Bill is largely revolutionary and will allow the sector to be governed in a manner that speaks to who we are as a country.”
The PVO Amendment Bill aims to enhance financial accountability within private voluntary organisations by enforcing stricter financial reporting requirements and mandating that these organizations operate strictly within their stated functions.
Furthermore, the bill addresses concerns over illegal activities disguised as charitable work, ensuring compliance with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing. Despite the government’s assurances, many NGOs remain wary of the bill’s implications for their operations.
Critics argue that the legislation could be used as a tool for increased government oversight and control over civil society, stifling dissent and restricting the freedoms of expression and association. Concerns have been raised about the potential for misuse of the law to target organizations critical of the government or those involved in advocating for human rights.
The bill’s passage follows a period of intense scrutiny and debate, especially after President Emmerson Mnangagwa expressed reservations about certain clauses that he felt required further refinement. Although the bill lapsed during the prorogation of Parliament and subsequent elections, its revival has reignited discussions about the future of civil society in Zimbabwe.
In addition to the PVO Amendment Bill, the National Assembly also approved the Administration of Estates Amendment Bill, which will now be sent to President Mnangagwa for his assent. This legislation was also subject to amendments proposed by the Senate, which included removing provisions that allowed creditors to participate in appointing executors for deceased estates.
Minister Ziyambi supported this amendment, stating that such appointments should rest solely with the deceased’s relatives, ensuring their interests are prioritized. “The Senate felt it was not appropriate that those that are owed money participate in the appointment of an executor,” Minister Ziyambi explained.
He emphasized that these changes aim to simplify estate management and provide justice for beneficiaries. Despite these legislative advancements, the PVO Amendment Bill continues to be viewed as a contentious issue.
Many NGOs fear that the increased regulatory framework could hinder their ability to operate effectively, particularly in areas that challenge the status quo or advocate for marginalized communities. The potential for the government to exert more control over PVOs raises questions about the balance between accountability and the freedom necessary for civil society to function independently.
