he Electoral Commissions Forum of SADC Countries (ECF) and the Commonwealth Observer Group (COG) highlighted the issue of dual accreditation of the media, which impedes the media’s capacity to cover the election. This hinders the citizen’s capacity to make informed choices.
Freedom of expression
Internet degrade on the eve of elections
The throttling was reported on NetOne, Econet, TelOne and Liquid telecoms, potentially affecting millions of citizens who rely on the networks.
Journalists urgent application referred to ordinary court roll
In its application, YOJA said ZEC had generally failed to put in place important measures and mechanisms relating to media coverage during elections, such as the Media Monitoring Committee.
Media freedom critical pillar of free and fair elections
Promoting and respecting the rights of journalists goes a long way in ensuring their safety and security during political gatherings and events, as the media plays a fundamental role in democratisation, accountability and respect for human rights.
Patriot Bill signed into law
Prior to its enactment, Commissioner Ourveena Geereesha Topsy-Sonoo, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information wrote to President Mnangagwa, advising him against signing the then Bill into law.
ZIMBABWE 2023 ELECTIONS AND BEYOND: Media regulation, Journalism Safety and Security
Sadly, the country continued to witness cases involving the wanton unlawful arrests, assaults, and harassment of journalists with impunity, with none of the perpetrators of these media freedom violations being held accountable or brought to book.
Asakhe Online seeks permission to livestream election court cases
Asakhe Online is seeking permission to use cellphones and or video cameras to livestream and broadcast the proceedings to the public through the internet in an orderly and unobtrusive manner.
ACHPR Special Rapporteur engages Mnangagwa on ‘Patriot Bill’
In a letter to President Mnangagwa last week, the Commissioner advised that the proposed law will have the effect of curtailing the exercise of rights such as media freedom and freedom of expression, the right to privacy, access to information, freedom of conscience, political rights, freedom to demonstrate and petition, and freedom of assembly and association.
Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Amendment Bill: Is history repeating itself?
“I can say without equivocation say that this bill, in its original form was the most calculated and determined assault on our liberties guaranteed by the Constitution, in the 20 years I served as Cabinet Minister and a member of the Cabinet Committee on Legislation for 16 of those years.”
Free Expression Climate Survey 2023
This survey is part of MISA’s regional programme to identify the most pressing issues for free media, free speech, and a free expression in the digital sphere.