When I look around, I see the profound effects of an unjust action taken without the collective consensus of those affected. The Public Service Regulations retirement age of Zimbabwe's civil servants was unilaterally raised from 65 to 70 years. This was done without any consultation or collective bargaining, dismissing the very essence of democracy. Servants of the country, who have dedicated their lives to service, were left excluded from a decision, which directly impacts them. This is not an impersonal political decision; it is a deeply personal one that affects lives in very real ways.

Many of these diligent civil servants are criminally underpaid, living on meager means. A retirement package received at the age of 65 could go a long way in setting up an income-generating project, providing a much-needed lifeline. With conditions of service already severely compromising, the extended retirement age only adds to long-standing grievances. The nature of civil service is often strenuous and demanding, rendering a long overdue break at 65, a fair reward.

Moreover, it has come to light that the motive behind the proposed raising of the retirement age is due to the misappropriation of pension funds. Such an act not only defies the principles of transparency and good governance but also punishes the innocent for the misdeeds of the guilty.

We cannot allow this grave injustice to continue. We demand the government revokes the decision to upscale the retirement age. It must honor the rights of civil servants and address the mismanagement of pension funds. Let us give Zimbabwe's civil servants the respect and consideration they deserve. Sign our petition, extend your support to reverse the unjust extension of the retirement age, and ensure a fair future to these civil servants.