Home 9 Media violations 9 Zanu PF supporters harass journalist

Zanu PF supporters harass journalist

8 Dec, 2020
NewsDay correspondent Kenneth Nyangani was reportedly manhandled at the Zanu PF provincial headquarters in the eastern border town of Mutare while covering demonstrations by some disgruntled party supporters.

NewsDay correspondent Kenneth Nyangani was on 8 December 2020 reportedly manhandled at the Zanu PF provincial headquarters in the eastern border town of Mutare while covering demonstrations by some disgruntled party supporters.

The Zanu PF supporters were reportedly demonstrating over the handling of the party’s district co-ordinating committee (DCC) elections.

His phone was briefly confiscated and the battery removed. Nyangani, was, however, rescued by other party supporters, resulting in his phone being returned to him.

Nyangani confirmed the incident: “While I was covering the event, they took my phone and asked me to delete pictures. They then took away the phone saying they wanted to make sure the pictures are deleted. They removed the phone battery,” he said

MISA Zimbabwe Position

Journalists have a right to do their work as guaranteed by the constitution and without any unlawful hindrances. MISA Zimbabwe, therefore, urges political parties to educate their supporters on media rights as provided for in the Constitution.

Journalists should also exercise extreme caution when covering potentially hostile situations for their own safety and security.

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

Africa Human Rights Day Statement

Africa Human Rights Day Statement

Africa Human Rights Day, observed annually on 21 October, offers a chance to reflect on the progress achieved in advancing human rights, whilst addressing the persistent challenges that still threaten these advances. This year’s commemorations, held under the theme...

FOX Fellowships ( Call for Applications)

FOX Fellowships ( Call for Applications)

DW Akademie in collaboration with the Spaces of Solidarity coalition of Media Freedom Advocates offer five FOX Fellowships of 1,000 EUR (~ 1,100 USD) for activists, media professionals, media freedom and freedom of expression advocates to foster free expression in the...