HARARE, Nov. 19 (AGCNewsNet) - Civil servants in Zimbabwe are experiencing salary delays as the government struggles with a reported cash shortage. Teachers, the largest group within the civil service, were notably impacted, with many not receiving their salaries on the expected pay date of November 18. 

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) issued a strong statement condemning the delays, warning the government not to provoke civil servants further. "We are receiving angering news. The government of [President Emmerson Mnangagwa] has failed to pay salaries on time to civil servants. Approximately half of the civil servant population is still to receive their full paltry monthly allowance," ARTUZ said. 

ARTUZ also criticized the government’s spending priorities, citing “millions of dollars” spent on international trips while essential payments are delayed. 

The delays occur amid broader fiscal tightening measures. Finance Secretary George Guvamatanga announced a 50% reduction in fuel allocations to ministries and government departments and the suspension of workshops organized by government agencies. These measures aim to manage the government’s year-end cash squeeze. 

Meanwhile, security services and healthcare sector employees received their salaries and 50% of their bonuses last week. Teachers and other civil servants are expected to receive their salaries and bonuses later this week. 

The salary delays have exacerbated frustrations among civil servants, who have long contended with low wages and limited financial support. ARTUZ warned that continued delays might provoke unrest among the country’s hardworking employees.