The structure of [Zn(C₁₉H₁₂N₅)₂], which is monomeric and consists of neutral Zn(bbip-H)₂ entities [bbip-H is the anionic form of bis(benzimidazolyl)pyridine, formed by the loss of one H atom], has been solved from a racemic twin. The Zn atom lies at a site with imposed 222 symmetry and the bbip-H ligand has imposed twofold symmetry. The imidazolyl H atom is disordered over two symmetry-related positions, thus raising the molecular symmetry as required by the space group. The angle between the planes of the two coordinated bbip-H ligands is 84.6 (3)°, so defining a distorted octahedral environment around the metal atom.