A desperate move by the Zanu PF government to protect consumers from economic hardships it has created, has backfired, causing more hardships instead. The deterioration of the economy has been worsened since late last year by the desperate ruling party, which sought to ensure the re-election of President Robert Mugabe in the face of a challenge from MDC president, Morgan Tsvangirai. The price controls have caused havoc in the country, threatening the livelihood of many people.