Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi has clarified that there is currently no law banning tinted vehicle windows in Zimbabwe.
Responding to questions in the National Assembly on Wednesday, Minister Ziyambi said: “At the moment, we do not have any law banning tinted windows on vehicles.” His remarks followed growing debate after motorists were urged on Tuesday to remove window tints to assist in the fight against drug and substance abuse.
On Tuesday, Permanent Secretary for Presidential Affairs and Devolution, Engineer Tafadzwa Muguti, addressed a press conference where he called on motorists to strip tint from their vehicles. Muguti argued that tinted windows were being used to conceal illegal drugs, complicating law enforcement surveillance.
“Tinted windows have facilitated attempts to smuggle illegal drugs undetected,” Muguti said. He added that while no specific figures were released, tinted automobiles had been linked to recent drug seizures.
Law enforcement agencies also confirmed that some vehicles involved in drug trafficking were fitted with tinted windows, although they did not disclose detailed case statistics. Authorities are continuing investigations to establish the extent of the problem.
The appeal to motorists forms part of broader Government efforts to combat drug and substance abuse. According to Muguti, removing tint is a “tangible step” that citizens can take to support police operations and help protect communities.
Despite the call, Minister Ziyambi emphasized that no law has yet been passed to make the removal of tint mandatory. This means motorists are not legally compelled to comply, but are instead encouraged to do so voluntarily.
Public response to the directive remains unclear, with no official reports on whether motorists are acting on the appeal. Observers say it will take time to assess whether the voluntary compliance contributes meaningfully to national drug enforcement strategies.
Government officials stress that the campaign against drugs requires cooperation between authorities and communities. While vehicle regulations remain unchanged, motorists are being asked to play their part in safeguarding public safety.
