Anger as Zimbabwe leader approves new radio levy for motorists

Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa has signed into law a contentious bill that requires all motorists to buy a radio license before acquiring vehicle insurance.

There has been an outcry from some motorists as they will now have to pay $92 annually in order to listen to the radio in their vehicles.

The introduction of the measure is part of a plan to widen revenue sources for the state broadcaster, but critics say the license fee is too high, especially given the difficult economic situation.

 

Leading opposition figure Nelson Chamisa said the new law was “too draconian, anti-citizen, and outrightly heartless.”

 

Responding to motorists’ concerns on social media, Nick Mangwana, a senior official in the Ministry of Information, said the new law was “necessary” and “fair”.

 

There are about 1.2 million registered cars in the country, but only 800,000 of them pay insurance, according to local media.

The loss-making Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) relies on income from the license fee as well as government grants. It also generates some revenue through advertising.

Critics have been calling for the scrapping of the fee, accusing ZBC of biased coverage in favor of the governing Zanu-PF.

The opposition has complained of unfair coverage by the broadcaster, especially during elections. ZBC has denied the accusation.

Under the new Broadcasting Services Amendment Act, all motorists must now pay the radio license fee before they can renew their vehicle insurance or obtain a license from the Zimbabwe National Road Authority (Zinara).

The changes, which were recently approved by parliament, peg the fee at $23 per quarter, amounting to $92 per year.

However, ZBC can grant exemptions to those who qualify, including tourists visiting the country.

 

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