The government has threatened to impound ZUPCO buses that do not have number plates saying they are violating the laws of the land.
These remarks were made by Deputy Information Minister, Kindness Paradza in response to a question by Kadoma Central legislator, Muchineripi Chinyanganya who wanted to know the government’s position on the case. Chinyanganya had asked:
These Zupco buses that I am referring to were acquired after 2019. The whole fleet does not have number plates, something should be done, just like what the minister has indicated that the entities should lead by example. What steps are being taken by the Ministry of Home Affairs to make sure that they comply with regulations?
In response, Paradza said:
It is an offence for any vehicle, including public service vehicles to traverse our roads without number plates. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) carries out its mandate without fear or favour and will ensure that motorists comply with the law.
May I reiterate that all vehicles, including buses owned by Zupco should have number plates as the ZRP will not hesitate to impound vehicles found without number plates.
The Commissioner General of Police has engaged Zupco management to ensure that their buses and crew comply with all the country’s laws in order to set a good example for other motorists.
I indicated, they must comply with the law. If they do not comply with the law, then the law will take its course.
Harare East legislator Tendai Biti (CCC) urged the minister to stop ZUPCO’s monopoly saying the government parastatal has no capacity to carry commuters.
Biti, a former Minister of Finance during the Government of National Unity (GNU) said private operators must be brought back since ZUPCO is overwhelmed by demand.