SECTOR 3 bodies – a provision which was underlined by a further ruling on the issue in the constitutional court. Before appointments can be made, there is a “vetting” process of potential applicants. In this process, those seen as “activists” are excluded. So, although the process appears to be transparent on the surface, there are always underlying stumbling blocks to fair appointments being made. The argument from the side of government is that the airwaves are of strategic national importance, and this justifies the appointment of military personnel on the board. It is another example of laws not being aligned with the constitution. Scores: Individual scores: 1 Country does not meet indicator 2 Country meets only a few aspects of indicator 3 Country meets some aspects of indicator 4 Country meets most aspects of indicator 5 Country meets all aspects of the indicator Average score: Score of previous years: ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ 2.2 2006: n/a; 2008: n/a; 2010: 1; 2012: 1.1; 2015: 1.5 3.3 The body regulating broadcasting services and licensing, does so in the public interest and ensures fairness and a diversity of views broadly representing society at large. The BAZ holds tight control over the process of allocating licences, even though it is felt that there is a need for more stations. Yet, there is an element of public apathy. At the last public hearing of potential licence holders (dealing with commercial radio applicants), it was noted that the public did not ask any questions of these applicants. The process of fairness and diversity in the issuing of licences rests with the BAZ, but the independence of this body is questionable. 32 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER ZIMBABWE 2020