Hon. Dr. T Mashakada, MDC Shadow Minister of Finance
All these aspects are currently beyond Zanu PF’s control. The 2017 growth forecast was based more on thumbsucking not on any realistic macro-model. The projection becomes unrealistic and spurious if you consider the effect of climate variability on Agriculture.
The economy remains stuck in a deflationary dungeon and the absence of economic stimulus measures such as increasing domestic consumption and gross fixed capital formation is inimical to growth. A capital budget of USD520 million cannot spur growth.
A projected budget deficit of USD400 million is inconsistent with a growth mode. A figure of USD180 million for paying interest on debt is not compatible with a growing economy. Employnent costs gobbling 92% of the total budget blunt economic growth.
In 2017 the economy is sure to register monthly negative growth rates on the back of fiscal imbalances and a persistent deflation.
Tapiwa Mashakada
Secretary for Finance and Economic Affairs
Movement For Democratic Change
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