President Mnangagwa signed the Private Voluntary Organizations Bill into law right before opening a market for informal traders in Mbare. The European Union responded harshly through its ambassador, Jobst von Kirchmann. He called the president insincere as the EU canceled planned funding for good governance in Zimbabwe for 2025. The new law gives authorities broad powers to monitor civic groups despite international warnings about human rights concerns.
Zimbabwe has about $21 billion in debt to various creditors. The government started a process to clear these arrears, which the EU supported. But officials turned away from promises they made during this process about expanding civic freedoms. The EU said they might reconsider support if Zimbabwe shows real commitment to the governance targets they agreed to earlier.
The newly signed Act changes five major laws, including money laundering rules. It allows officials to investigate ownership structures, funding sources, and connections of private organizations. People found breaking these rules could face jail terms up to 35 years for offenses related to illegal financing. The government can also shut down groups or take their assets if they violate the new rules.
Zimbabwe has about $21 billion in debt to various creditors. The government started a process to clear these arrears, which the EU supported. But officials turned away from promises they made during this process about expanding civic freedoms. The EU said they might reconsider support if Zimbabwe shows real commitment to the governance targets they agreed to earlier.
The newly signed Act changes five major laws, including money laundering rules. It allows officials to investigate ownership structures, funding sources, and connections of private organizations. People found breaking these rules could face jail terms up to 35 years for offenses related to illegal financing. The government can also shut down groups or take their assets if they violate the new rules.
