Unapproved rate Increase: A betrayal of trust

Suburban

Harare’s clandestine increase of rates without an approved budget have sparked outrage and disbelief among the city’s residents. The unilateral decision to raise rates in the absence of an approved budget not only raises questions about the legality of such actions but also highlights the lack of accountability and transparency within the municipality.

The city’s move to increase rates while the budget is still awaiting approval from the Ministry of Local Government is not only illegal but also demonstrates a blatant disregard for due process and the concerns of its residents.

The failure to provide services to ratepayers, coupled with the unjustified rate increases, has left residents feeling betrayed and taken advantage of by the very institution entrusted with managing the city’s affairs. The justification provided by Deputy Mayor Rose Muronda, citing the introduction of a new updated Valuation Roll, has done little to appease the frustrations of the residents.

Furthermore, the revelation by Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume that the billing system is plagued by perennial problems and is being exploited by corrupt workers is deeply concerning.

The fact that the council is punishing diligent ratepayers to cover the deficits caused by defaulters is not only unjust but also highlights the systemic issues within the municipality that need urgent attention and reform.

The discontent among residents is palpable, with many describing the rate increases as “pure thieving” and unjust fleecing of ratepayers. The frustration is further exacerbated by the billing system’s inefficiencies and the fact that residents are being charged for non-provided services such as water and refuse collection. It is evident that the City of Harare’s actions have eroded the trust and confidence of its residents, who are left questioning the integrity and accountability of their local authorities.

The increases are a betrayal of the trust bestowed upon the city by the residents. It is imperative that the municipality addresses the legitimate concerns of its ratepayers and takes immediate steps to rectify this situation. Transparency, accountability, and respect for due process are fundamental principles that must be upheld by the municipality to regain the trust of its residents and ensure a fair and just governance system.

Harare must prioritise the interests of its residents and work towards restoring the faith and confidence that has been shattered by this alarming display of disregard for due process and the concerns of the ratepayers it is meant to serve. The municipality must engage in meaningful dialogue with the residents, address the systemic issues within the billing system, and ensure that ratepayers are not unfairly burdened by unapproved rate increases. Only through genuine efforts to rectify these issues can the City of Harare begin to rebuild the trust that has been gravely undermined by its recent actions.