The storm was ignited by Annah Mokgethi, Minister of Labour and Home Affairs, during a fiery session in the National Assembly. The proposed idea faced resolute disapproval from MPs across the political spectrum, drawing a sharp contrast to Botswana's existing passport exemption pact with Namibia.

The parliamentary discontent was palpable, with members from both the ruling party and the opposition adamantly rejecting the proposed arrangement. Despite Botswana's successful passport exemption pact with Namibia, MPs made it unequivocally clear to Minister Mokgethi that extending this privilege to Zimbabwe was not agreeable.

Adding to the confusion were conflicting statements between Zimbabwean President Emerson Mnangagwa and Minister Mokgethi. While Mnangagwa had announced an agreement with Botswana's President, Mokgweetsi Masisi, regarding the passport exemption, Mokgethi emphasized that no formal agreement had been ratified, stating, "There is no signed agreement to effect this initiative." 

She further highlighted the necessity of undergoing processes and procedures before any such initiative could come to fruition, emphasizing the importance of regulatory standards' acceptance.