Chinamasa says ZIMRA boss earns less than $20 000

Finance Minister Patrick Chinamasa yesterday refuted reports that Zimbabwe Revenue Authority boss Gershom Pasi earned US$310 000 as alleged in parliament last week but earned less than US$20 000.

He had been asked by Bindura North Member of Parliament Shupikai Musanhi to clarify the issue since ZIMRA fell under his ministry.

Chinamasa said although he did not have the exact figure he was certain it was not more than US$20 0000.

After an inaudible interjection, the minister said: “No, no, you can pursue a person but let us please hatiregere kutonga munhu,ngatitonge mhosva.”

Q &A:

MR. MUSANHI: Thank you Mr. Speaker Sir. When the debate on corruption was moved, an hon. member across the bench – [AN HON. MEMBER: Across the table mhani iwe!] – cross the table, yes – [Laughter] – raised the issue that the Commissioner General is being paid US$310 000. I just want elaboration hon. Minister, if this is a true figure or it is a lie again.

MR. CHINAMASA: You know, if we take action without evidence, we will put this House in very bad repute. The information I have – because ZIMRA comes under my Ministry, is such that, there is a gross difference – that information which came out in the newspaper on the basis of information that I have, it is false. – [AN HON. MEMBER: What is the correct figure?] – This is a matter that we are going to go into I do not have the figures right now, but certainly it is not more than US$20 000.00 – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections]- No, no, you can pursue a person but let us please hatiregere kutonga munhu, ngatitonge mhosva. As far as the information I have, it is false unless I am proved otherwise.

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