In a developing story that highlights the ongoing struggles of retired police officers in Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwe Republic Police Loyal Pensioners Association (ZRPLPA), represented by Tavenhamo and Machingauta Legal Practitioners, has issued a notice of intention to sue the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) over unpaid pension benefits.
The legal move comes as the government announces plans to compensate pensioners for losses incurred prior to 2009.
During a recent breakfast meeting with insurance and pensions industry stakeholders organised by the Insurance and Pensions Commission (IPEC) in Harare, Finance Minister Prof. Mthuli Ncube revealed that the government has set aside US$175 million to address pre-2009 losses.
“We are urging the industry to work with the Government for us to begin compensating the pensioners in earnest,” Ncube stated, expressing optimism about the progress made so far in establishing a compensation framework.
However, for many pensioners, the situation remains dire. The association represents individuals who retired between 2019 and 2023 and are claiming that they have not received their expected US dollar components, despite contributing in foreign currency from 2009 to 2018.
The frustration is palpable, with some retirees reportedly considering a militant approach if their grievances are not adequately addressed.
In their legal correspondence, ZRPLPA noted a lack of transparency and detail from the police regarding the compensation owed to its members.
W. Marecha, Assistant Commissioner and Director of Civil Process, responded to the association’s notice, stating, “We have noted that no details of the Pensioners you so represent have been availed and also the nature of their queries that is amount paid viz-a-viz amounts expected. It is our view that the information is necessary so that you can be properly responded.”
Marecha directed the association to address pension matters to the Salary Service Bureau Pensions Office located at Mkwati Building in Harare.
The situation is further complicated by the differing treatment of recent retirees.
Reports indicate that those retiring from the force in 2024 are receiving their benefits in both US dollars and the local currency, known as the ZWG component, exacerbating feelings of inequality among earlier retirees.
While Prof. Ncube’s assurances regarding the allocation for pre-2009 losses are welcomed, many pensioners fear that without immediate action, the promised compensation will fail to address their ongoing financial challenges.
“We hope that this is something where we can make progress on,” Ncube noted, but for those waiting for justice, progress seems slow.
The tension between the government, the police, and pensioners continues to grow as affected individuals seek clarity and resolution.
With the stakes high, the ZRPLPA’s call to action may soon escalate, demanding immediate attention to their plight.
As the government grapples with its commitment to compensation, the future for these retirees remains uncertain.