In brief
Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officially enacted a law mandating drivers to pay for a radio licence before getting vehicle insurance, stirring backlash due to the cost and timing amid a struggling economy.
In an effort to enhance revenue for the state broadcaster, the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC), President Emmerson Mnangagwa has signed a new law that requires all motorists to obtain a radio licence costing $92 (£68) annually, just to be able to listen to the radio in their cars. This move has sparked significant backlash from drivers, who argue that the fee is excessive, particularly in light of the country's ongoing economic issues. Opposition leader Nelson Chamisa called the legislation "draconian, anti-citizens, and outrightly heartless." Nick Mangwana from the ministry of information defended the law as "necessary" and "fair" in response to the criticism surfacing on social media. Currently, out of the 1.2 million registered vehicles in Zimbabwe, only 800,000 are insured, highlighting a significant gap in compliance. The ZBC has struggled financially, relying on licence fees and government support amid accusations of biased reporting favoring the ruling Zanu-PF party during elections. The new law, which connects the licence to vehicle insurance renewal, could face significant resistance as many feel it unjustly burdens the citizens. Critics like Chamisa argue that citizens are being "pauperized," demanding a reconsideration of the law that feels overly harsh in these tough economic times. Despite exemptions for certain individuals, including tourists, it remains to be seen how the government and ZBC will enforce this contentious policy moving forward.
