"Kindly Ignore This": Mnangagwa's Spokesperson Overturns Tinted Windows Ban!

HARARE, ZIMBABWE - A government directive announced this week to ban tinted car windows has been publicly overturned by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s spokesperson, George Charamba, who clarified that the pronouncement has no legal standing and is not official policy.

Initial Ban Announced Citing Public Safety

The initial announcement was made on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, by the Secretary for Presidential Affairs and Devolution, Tafadzwa Muguti. During a press conference, Muguti stated that a comprehensive ban would be placed on tinted vehicle windows, with exemptions only for government and VIP vehicles.

Government Clarifies Stance on Tinted Windows

The justification for the measure was cited as a way to curb criminal activities and enhance public safety.

Presidential Spokesperson Voids the Directive

However, in a swift public rebuttal just a day later, George Charamba corrected the announcement via social media. Writing on the platform X (formerly Twitter), Charamba instructed Zimbabweans that the stated ban was not official. He clarified that the directive had no foundation in current law and was issued by an unauthorized officer.

Public Seeks Clarity After Conflicting Statements

The opposing messages from different government offices have resulted in public confusion. Online, citizens noted the apparent lack of coordination and called for clear, unified communication from officials. The use of a social media account to issue a major policy correction also drew significant public attention.