Home 9 Media violations 9 MDC Alliance security harass ZBC Midlands Bureau Chief

MDC Alliance security harass ZBC Midlands Bureau Chief

26 Feb, 2019
MDC Alliance security details are reported to have harassed Tafara Chikumira, a journalist with the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Cooperation (ZBC) during a rally held in Gweru’s Mkoba stadium on Sunday 24 February 2019.

MDC Alliance security details are reported to have harassed Tafara Chikumira, a journalist with the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Cooperation (ZBC) during a rally held in Gweru’s Mkoba stadium on Sunday 24 February 2019. Chikumira is the ZBC’s Midlands Bureau Chief.

According to Chikumira, the security details did not like the idea of ZBC covering the event, arguing that ZBC’s coverage is biased in favour of the ruling party.

The harassment only ended after the intervention of MDC Alliance’s leader Nelson Chamisa, thus permitting the journalist to continue with his duties.

MISA Zimbabwe Position MISA Zimbabwe condemns the intimidation and assault of journalists by members of political parties. The rights to both media freedom and access to information are explicitly guaranteed in the constitution of Zimbabwe through Section 61 and 62 respectively.

MISA Zimbabwe also reminds media practitioners to employ the profession’s safety and security measures while covering hostile situations. Media practitioners are advised to also utilise the MISA JournoSOS App as well as the MISA Panic Button App in the event of any violations. MISA Zimbabwe staff is also on standby to assist media practitioners injured or arrested in the line of duty. The MISA Hotline is 0784 437 338.

//END

About MISA

The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) was founded in 1992. Its work focuses on promoting, and advocating for, the unhindered enjoyment of freedom of expression, access to information and a free, independent, diverse and pluralistic media.

Share this

Related news

Now Available: AI Report on Southern Africa

Now Available: AI Report on Southern Africa

Executive Summary Artificial Intelligence (AI) has rapidly become a constant in most people`s lives through its application in commerce, education, health, public service delivery, communications, governance, agriculture, and manufacturing. While most AI tools...

ACHPR raises concern over mass surveillance

ACHPR raises concern over mass surveillance

The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) has raised concern about the prevalence of mass surveillance and unlawful targeted communication surveillance that does not conform with international human rights law and standards. The ACHPR said this...

Violence against women serious breach of human rights

Violence against women serious breach of human rights

Violence against women is the most pervasive breach of human rights worldwide which is being worsened by targeting and attacking women including female journalists who are vocal online. As the world commemorates the International Day for the Elimination of Violence...