Zimbabwe's Controversial Radio Levy Sparks Outrage Among Motorists**

Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa has enacted a new law requiring motorists to obtain a radio license for vehicle insurance, leading to widespread protests regarding its financial impact on citizens.**

Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa has ignited significant backlash after endorsing a controversial piece of legislation that mandates all vehicle owners to acquire a radio licence in order to obtain vehicle insurance. The goal of this law, according to government officials, is to generate additional funding for the beleaguered state broadcaster, the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC).

The annual cost of the licence has been set at $92 (£68), a figure that many motorists and critics find excessively burdensome, particularly amid Zimbabwe's prevailing economic hardships. Opposition leader Nelson Chamisa harshly condemned the legislation, labeling it "draconian, anti-citizens, and outrightly heartless." In a response on social media, Nick Mangwana, a senior information ministry official, defended the law, asserting that it is both "necessary" and "fair."

Currently, there are approximately 1.2 million registered cars in Zimbabwe, yet only around 800,000 are insured. The ZBC has been struggling financially, relying heavily on license fees and government subsidies, compounded by accusations of partisan reporting favoring the ruling Zanu-PF party, particularly during election periods.

The newly minted Broadcasting Services Amendment Act now stipulates that the radio licence fee must be paid before vehicle insurance can be renewed or before drivers can obtain a licence from the Zimbabwe National Road Authority (ZINARA). With fees calculated at $23 quarterly, the government aims to plug loopholes and enhance compliance, citing that insurance companies must verify the validity of the radio licence before selling polices to motorists. The law does allow for exemptions for qualifying individuals, such as tourists.

However, the implementation of this amendment has faced stern rejection from numerous drivers and opposition factions. "Citizens are being pauperized left, right and centre," Chamisa expressed on social media, questioning the leadership's regard for its populace. Critics are calling the radio levy an "unjust assault on motorists," suggesting it adds financial strain on an already stressed citizenry. Meanwhile, discussions and debates continue as the ZBC confronts its longstanding struggle to collect fees amidst widespread discontent.