As highlighted earlier in this report, the media operating environment drastically improved during the 2023 elections compared to previous election seasons.
Media freedom
Breast Cancer Month: Celebrating the Strength and Resilience of Female Journalists
This year’s theme is: Keeping Her in The Picture, which is precisely what female journalists do through their professional lenses and storytelling. They have told stories of brave women who have survived breast cancer and, at times, their stories of survival.
Election observer missions’ findings on Zimbabwe elections
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.
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 PROFESSIONALISM AND ACCOUNTABILITY DURING ELECTIONS
The media is responsible for providing the public with access to different facts, opinions and ideas and holding authorities and other appropriate officials accountable while promoting the rule of law and respect for human rights.
ZBC publishes elections broadcasting schedule
On 17 July, MISA Zimbabwe wrote to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) requesting the schedule. MISA Zimbabwe then wrote a follow-up letter on 23 July, after which a schedule was published in the local newspapers.
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.
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.”