Tinotenda Hove – In a development that has sparked public criticism over priorities in government, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s close ally and Midlands Minister, Owen “Mudha” Ncube, bought expensive alcohol for civil servants in Gokwe Kana on Saturday — a gesture many have described as tone-deaf in the face of economic hardship.

According to witnesses, the event was presented as an early Christmas party for government workers in the constituency. Instead of addressing long-standing concerns such as wages, transport, and working conditions, Ncube reportedly handed out costly whisky and premium drinks.

Political observers said the move reflects a worrying disconnect between leadership and the daily struggles faced by ordinary public workers. One analyst noted that the gesture appeared to prioritise image over substance, saying it represents “a classic case of political grandstanding at a time when civil servants are barely scraping by.”

Zanu PF online activist Cleopas Mukungunugwa, however, praised the move, celebrating it on social media. He posted, “Hon. Owen ‘Mudha’ Ncube Hosts Early Christmas Party for Civil Servants in Gokwe Kana Constituency,” before bragging about the luxury of the event. “PaGokwe vari kumwawo mawhiskey maBlue Label kunge vari muPabloz!!” he wrote, suggesting attendees were drinking high-end whisky normally found in upmarket nightspots.

But analysts pushed back, arguing that expensive alcohol does nothing to address the structural issues affecting government workers. One commentator said the gesture felt “insensitive and misaligned with the real needs of civil servants who continue to face rising costs of living and stagnant salaries.” Another stated that such displays “send the wrong message at a time when public institutions are under strain.”

The criticism comes amid growing pressure on government officials to prioritise service delivery, economic reform, and workers’ welfare instead of symbolic or celebratory gestures that offer no lasting benefit.

While some ruling party supporters have attempted to frame the event as kindness, many residents see it as an example of misplaced priorities — and a reminder of the widening gap between those in power and the people they claim to serve.