Political Reporter
A well-placed source within Zimbabwe's media sector has revealed that a group of local journalists has been receiving payments from some Western embassies to publish content that denigrates President Emmerson Mnangagwa, the security sector, and other high-profile figures in a calculated plot to sow discord between the leadership and the general populace.
The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, named journalists Simba Chikanza of ZimEye, Hopewell Chin’ono, and Blessed Mhlanga, as among those who allegedly received "dirty money" to push a negative narrative against the Government.
According to the source, the journalists were given direct instructions by their foreign handlers to produce and publish news articles, opinion pieces, and social media content designed to portray Zimbabwe’s leadership as incompetent, corrupt, and out of touch with ordinary citizens.
"The agenda is clear – to create a false perception that the country is on the brink of collapse, that the President has lost control, and that the security forces are divided and compromised. These journalists are being used as puppets to destabilise the nation by spreading lies and exaggerating challenges," the source said.
The source further claimed that part of the strategy involves pushing stories that suggest deep fractures within Zimbabwe’s state security apparatus, including the military, police, and intelligence service.
"The ultimate goal is to make citizens lose faith in their own institutions. If people believe the security sector is weak or divided, it becomes easier to manipulate public opinion and incite unrest," the source added.
The implicated journalists—Chin’ono, Chikanza, and Mhlanga are known for their critical reporting on the Government.
However, the source insists their work goes beyond journalism and aligns with a foreign agenda aimed at regime change.
"These individuals are not acting independently. They are on a payroll, and their content is carefully crafted to fit a pre-determined narrative. Some of them even receive talking points directly from foreign agents," the source alleged.
Authorities have not yet issued an official statement on the matter, but security analysts suggest that such revelations, if proven correct, could lead to investigations and possible legal action against those involved.
"If there is evidence that foreign embassies are fundinglocal journalists to destabilise the country, this constitutes a serious national security threat. Government may be forced to act to protect the country’s sovereignty," said political analyst, Tendai Moyo.
As the allegations swirl, analysts warn that the situation could further strain already tense relations between Zimbabwe and Western nations.
