Harare – Zimbabwean truck and bus drivers are demanding that the government abolish the mandatory retest requirement for Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) holders, arguing that it is unnecessary and causing significant hardships both locally and abroad.
In a formal letter addressed to the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Honourable Felix Tapiwa Mhona, the Zim Drivers Associations and Unions outlined their grievances, calling for immediate intervention to suspend or remove the retest requirement.
Why Truckers Want the Retest Abolished
The drivers argue that Zimbabwe already has some of the most rigorous driver training programs in the region, including compulsory defensive driving refresher courses. They believe that forcing experienced drivers to undergo retests does not contribute to reducing accidents and instead creates unnecessary financial and logistical burdens.
Additionally, the recent shift from metal to plastic driver’s licenses has led to the loss of certain license categories, forcing some drivers to undergo additional tests to retain their full qualifications. This change has led to confusion and frustrations among drivers, licensing authorities, and law enforcement officers.
Harassment in Foreign Countries
Zimbabwean truck drivers operating in other countries, particularly within the SADC and COMESA regions, are facing increased scrutiny due to the new licensing system. Many report being detained, fined, or denied entry at border posts due to misunderstandings about the validity of their PrDP endorsements.
“There is confusion among foreign authorities regarding the status of our PrDPs. Some drivers have been arrested and fined, disrupting transport services and threatening our livelihoods,” the statement from the unions read.
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Call to Stop Harassment from Authorities
The unions have also raised concerns about harassment from local law enforcement and the Vehicle Inspection Department (VID). They are requesting that the police and VID officials refrain from penalizing drivers while the issue is being addressed.
“We kindly request that VID and police personnel stop harassing us regarding the retest issue while we await the outcome of our concerns,” the letter stated.
A Critical Role in the Economy
Truck drivers are the backbone of Zimbabwe’s economy, ensuring the movement of goods and people across the region. The unions emphasized their commitment to road safety and efficiency, calling on the government to engage with them in finding solutions that benefit both the industry and the country’s economy.
For now, all eyes are on the Transport Ministry, as Zimbabwean truck drivers await a response to their urgent plea.
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