The Zimbabwe National Editors Forum (ZINEF) has issued a strong and urgent call for the protection and promotion of press freedom in Zimbabwe and globally, warning of growing threats against journalists and independent media as the world marks UNESCO’s World Press Freedom Day.
In a bold statement, ZINEF Chairman Dumisani Muleya commended the courage and dedication of journalists who continue to report truthfully in the face of adversity, emphasizing the critical role of a free press in sustaining democracy.
“Journalists in Zimbabwe and around the world risk everything to tell stories that serve the public interest and common good,” said Muleya. “Press freedom is not just a fundamental right, but a cornerstone of democracy.”
ZINEF’s message highlighted how the digital age has transformed journalism, with Artificial Intelligence (AI) offering both promise and peril. While AI can enhance access to and distribution of information, the forum warned of its misuse in spreading misinformation, facilitating surveillance, and enabling censorship.
“AI is changing journalism in profound ways. While it supports innovation and access to information, it also poses serious threats when used to suppress truth and endanger reporters,” the statement said.
ZINEF expressed deep concern over the global escalation in attacks on journalists. Citing data from the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), it noted 2023 had the highest number of journalist killings in 30 years, with media workers losing their lives in conflict zones and authoritarian regimes alike.
“From Zimbabwe to Palestine, Russia, and the United States, journalists are increasingly under siege. Harassment, detention, online abuse, and even murder have become commonplace,” Muleya said. “Even in countries long considered democratic, leaders like former U.S. President Donald Trump have vilified journalists, labelling them ‘enemies of the people’.”
In Zimbabwe, ZINEF painted a bleak picture of the media landscape. It cited mounting political hostility, commercial interference, and economic instability as serious threats to press freedom. Both state and non-state actors were accused of seeking to manipulate media narratives, while corporate interests increasingly undermine editorial independence through advertising pressure.
“There is no financially secure media house in Zimbabwe today,” the statement noted. “Survival has replaced sustainability. Journalism is being compromised in the pursuit of commercial interests.”
The forum also raised alarm over the growing repression of critical journalism, pointing to the detention of investigative journalist Blessed Mhlanga as a case in point. Mhlanga has been held for over two months without bail after interviewing a war veteran who called for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s resignation.
“Mhlanga’s arrest is a blatant attempt to silence dissenting voices and sends a chilling message to the journalistic community,” said Muleya. “Such actions harm Zimbabwe’s democratic standing and international image.”
ZINEF urged the Zimbabwean government to uphold constitutional freedoms, release Mhlanga immediately and unconditionally, and review laws that stifle free expression, including the Cyber and Data Protection Act.
“As we commemorate World Press Freedom Day, we must reaffirm our commitment to fearless journalism,” Muleya said. “We call on governments, media houses, and citizens to stand together in defending journalists and preserving the public’s right to know.”
The statement concluded with a rallying call to protect press freedom as a vital pillar of democracy, both in Zimbabwe and across the globe.
