Africa-Press – Botswana. Pupurai Togarepi, the chief whip of Zimbabwe’s ruling party, ZANU-PF, has urged the government to consider a three-tier passport system. His call comes in response to Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube’s contentious proposal to raise passport fees, which has sparked widespread public outrage.
A Plea for Accessibility
Togarepi’s proposal is a plea for accessibility, ensuring that all Zimbabweans can secure this essential travel document. Ncube’s initial proposal was to hike the fee for an ordinary passport from US$120 to US$200. However, after widespread public outcry, this fee was adjusted to US$150, with the cost of an emergency passport set at US$200.
Togarepi has argued that these proposed fees are excessively high and could deter people from obtaining a passport. He maintains that having a passport is a fundamental right and should not be impeded by prohibitive costs. His recommendation is for a proportional pricing system that takes into account the individual’s economic circumstances.
Opposition and Backlash
Simultaneously, there’s a significant opposition brewing in Botswana’s parliament to the proposed removal of passports for travel between Botswana and Zimbabwe. The public has also expressed disapproval of the agreement between the presidents of Botswana and Zimbabwe to abolish passports at entry points. Parliamentarians have voiced concerns about an influx of Zimbabweans and the subsequent strain on Botswana’s health system.
Despite a joint announcement by Zimbabwean President Emerson Mnangagwa and Botswana’s Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, Annah Mokgethi, the lack of a signed agreement has caused confusion and further opposition. Critics argue that the agreement was announced without prior consultation and have questioned the practicality of replacing passports with machine-readable identity cards.
The Zimbabwean Exodus
Underpinning this debate is the harsh reality of Zimbabwe’s economic collapse. Many Zimbabweans have sought opportunities in Botswana and other neighbouring countries, leading to increased migration. The proposed scrapping of passport requirements would primarily benefit these Zimbabweans who have fled economic hardship.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how Zimbabwe’s government will navigate these complex issues. What’s clear is that any decision on passport fees and requirements will have far-reaching implications for both Zimbabweans and their neighbouring countries.
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