Staff Reporter

Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Senator Monica Mutsvangwa says impunity for crimes against journalists should be eradicated as it seeks to silence voices that keep in check societal excesses.

Minister Mutsvangwa said this in Harare yesterday at the Commemorations to mark the International Day to end impunity for crimes against journalists, where she was the Guest of Honour. She further added that the Second Republic is open and fully behind the media sector.

“We have listened to voices of reason in the media and immediately set off to reform the media laws and policy framework. As part of its law reform agenda, this administration repealed the dreaded AIPPA, giving birth to the Freedom of Information Act.

“This represents a major shift of the Second Republic as one that is open, transparent and supportive towards the media sector. We sought to remove anything that hindered journalists to execute their duties freely. We are fully aware that a lot more still needs to be done and we will do it,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.

The Second Republic has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a safe operating environment for journalists and adherence to constitutional provisions guaranteeing freedom of the media.

Media Alliance of Zimbabwe Vice-Chairperson Loughty Dube who also graced the event noted a reduction in cases of violence against journalists in Zimbabwe, which he said signified the dawn of a new era.

National Police Spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi implored journalists to do their work within the confines of the law highlighting that the police enjoyed cordial relations with the media.

“The media links the police and the public and as police, we will continue to support the media and to protect media practitioners’ rights. However, journalists should also do their work according to the dictates of the law,” he said.

The International Day to end impunity for crimes against journalists was set aside by the United Nations in 2013 to create a safe operating environment for media practitioners. Zimbabwe is among top countries in Africa, which respects and observes journalists’ rights.