Zimbabwe’s proposed Private Voluntary Organisations (PVO) Amendment Bill reignited debate during the committee stage in the National Assembly on 3 September 2024. One of the proposed amendments, which seeks to give the government power to suspend NGO leaders without prior notice, has drawn significant attention.
Critics view the bill as an assault on civil liberties, attracting opposition from civil society and political leaders alike. Meanwhile, Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, representing the government, argues that the legislation is essential for regulating NGOs. He claims that some organizations are being used to destabilize the nation under foreign influence.
“We are not targeting genuine organizations working for the good of Zimbabwe,” Ziyambi stated. “This bill is about ensuring transparency and accountability. It is in the national interest to prevent any organization from pursuing agendas that are contrary to the country’s welfare.”
Opposition Argument
However, opposition MPs and activists have expressed serious concerns about the bill, warning that it could give the government unchecked power to interfere with NGOs. These organizations provide critical services such as health, education, and human rights advocacy. For instance, Dzivarasekwa legislator Edwin Mushoriwa, an opposition member of Parliament, cautioned that the bill’s provisions are dangerous.
“This bill is about silencing any organization that the government feels is too critical. Leaders can be removed without any due process or transparency. This is a direct attack on democracy and freedom of association,” Mushoriwa warned.
The bill comes amid heightened tensions between the government and civil society. Many fear it will lead to the closure of organizations that play a vital role in supporting marginalized communities. Civil society groups argue that the bill is vague in its criteria for suspending NGO leaders, which, in their view, gives the government too much discretionary power.
In response, Ziyambi dismissed these concerns, insisting that the law would only target organizations guilty of violating their registration terms or engaging in activities that threaten national security. “This is about order, not suppression,” he reiterated, emphasizing the need for the country to protect itself from external influences.
Although the PVO Amendment Bill has not yet been passed, it has already garnered significant attention both locally and internationally. Advocacy groups continue to urge the government to reconsider its stance, warning of severe repercussions on the ability of NGOs to operate freely in Zimbabwe.
