The United African National Council (UANC) has strongly condemned the recently signed Broadcasting Services Amendment Act No. 2 of 2025, describing it as “draconian” and “cruel to the citizens of Zimbabwe.”
In a strongly worded statement, UANC President Mr. Percy Chigodora criticised President Emmerson Mnangagwa for assenting to a bill that imposes mandatory radio licence fees, particularly targeting motorists.
“The Act is not only draconian but deeply unfair to already struggling Zimbabweans,” said Chigodora. “It comes just after the government introduced a new fuel tax, which has already taken its toll on ordinary citizens.”
The UANC President questioned the logic behind making radio licences compulsory through legislation, pointing out that international practice encourages voluntary subscription based on quality and appealing content not coercion.
“People don’t pay for biased content. They subscribe because they love what they hear,” he said.
Chigodora accused the government of targeting motorists, who are already burdened by multiple tollgates and rising fuel costs. He noted the disparity between the ordinary citizens and senior government officials who are exempted from paying tolls and vehicle licences.
“Why must the ordinary motorist pay when government officials are enjoying exemptions, including duty-free vehicle imports? This is a government that punishes its people while protecting the elite.”
While acknowledging that the President has already signed the bill into law, Chigodora implored him to reconsider, saying leadership means listening to the cries of the people.
“I urge you, Mr. Mnangagwa, as Head of State, to reflect deeply on the suffering of those who you claim voted for you,” he said.
“Across Southern Africa, Zimbabwe now has the highest number of taxes imposed on its citizens yet those in power continue to enjoy luxurious perks and exemptions.”
Chigodora warned that those who supported the bill may one day fall victim to similar policies, saying,
“What they don’t realise is that the same law they are cheer-leading today might haunt them tomorrow.”
The UANC has called on civil society, opposition parties, and citizens to speak out against what they term an unjust law that adds to the financial burden of Zimbabweans.