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Journalist Chin’ono arrested on contempt of court charges
Journalist Hopewell Chin’ono was this evening on 3 November 2020 arrested at his home in Harare on allegations of contempt of court.
Tanzania throttles internet ahead of elections
On 26 and 27 October 2020, there were reports that the Tanzania government had throttled the internet, while also attempting to enforce social media blackouts.
Right to privacy increasingly under threat in Zimbabwe
The right to privacy is very critical because it is an enabling right that allows for the exercise of media freedom and freedom of expression. It is in that context that the confidentiality of media sources is key and equally protected by the Constitution.
Journalists arrested following swoop on Harare council meeting
Three journalists arrested while covering a Harare City Council meeting following a swoop on the meeting by the Special Anti-Corruption Unit (SACU) on 29 October 2020 in Harare, have been released without charges.
Freedom of expression environment deteriorates as Tanzania heads for elections
In the past 10 months, the Tanzanian government has suspended a number of media organisations from broadcasting or publishing, among them Clouds FM and Clouds TV, while the newspaper Tanzania Daima, has been indefinitely barred from publishing.
Lesotho proposed internet broadcasting rules will stifle free speech
The Lesotho Communications Authority (LCA), has proposed new regulations that stipulate that individuals with more than 100 followers on social media platforms will be considered as internet broadcasters and may need to register with authorities.
Tanzania blocks bulk SMS as rights environment deteriorates
Tanzania is in the process of holding its general elections, which have been tainted by the government’s clampdown on basic rights such as freedoms of expression, media, and, digital rights.
Zimbabwe’s looming Patriot Bill cause for great concern
Sometime in August 2020, the Zimbabwe Cabinet discussed the possibility of adopting a law that criminalises campaigning against one’s own country.
Commission raises alarm on Zimbabwe’s human rights situation
The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) has raised alarm at the deteriorating human rights situation in Zimbabwe, particularly the arbitrary arrests and detention of journalists and women human rights defenders.