Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has signed a controversial bill requiring all motorists to purchase a radio license before obtaining vehicle insurance.
Some motorists have protested as they now have to pay $92 per year (£68) to listen to the radio in their vehicles.
The introduction of the measure is part of a plan to expand the revenue stream of state broadcasters, but critics say the licensing fees are too high, especially given the financial difficulties.
Leading opposition figure Nelson Chamisa said the new law was “too harsh, anti-citizen and totally ruthless.”
Responding to motorists’ concerns on social media, Nick Mangwana, a senior information officer, said the new law was “necessary” and “fair”.
According to local media reports, there are about 1.2 million registered cars in the country, but only 800,000 paid insurance.
Zimbabwe’s lost broadcasters (ZBC) rely on revenues as well as government grants, and generates some revenue through advertising.
But broadcasters are working to get people to pay for TV and broadcast licenses.
Critics have been calling for cancellation of consumption, accusing ZBC of biased coverage in support of Zanu-PF.
Opposition complained about unfair reporting by broadcasters, especially during the elections. ZBC denied the allegation.
Under the new broadcast service amendment, all motorists now have to pay a radio license fee before they can renew vehicle insurance or obtain a license from Zinara.
The changes were recently approved by the parliament, setting the fee to $23 per quarter and $92 per year.
However, ZBC can be awarded to those who qualify, including tourists visiting the country.
However, the new amendment aims to eliminate vulnerabilities and increase requirements for obtaining licenses.
It prohibits all auto insurers from selling their products to motorists without a valid ZBC radio license unless they have a ZBC exemption certificate or the insured vehicle does not have a radio receiver.
But the law raised sharp criticism from motorists and opposition groups, putting taxpayers on the burden.
“Citizens left, left, why should citizens of this country get such ruthless and ruthless leadership?” Posted by Chamisa on X.
Another X user described the measure as an “unfair attack on the driver.”
