Roseline Mutare
The Community Newspapers Association of Zimbabwe (CNAZ) has strongly opposed calls to dismantle the Voluntary Media Council of Zimbabwe (VMCZ), warning that such a move would be “suicidal” for press freedom.
Speaking at a Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC) workshop on co-regulation, CNAZ chairman Matthew Takaona emphasized that disbanding VMCZ would undermine the independence of the media and invite government control.
“VMCZ and ZMC are “ripe pillars” for Zimbabwe’s co-regulation system, certain conditions must be met, these include ensuring the independence of both bodies, statutory recognition of VMCZ, and reforms to make VMCZ more democratic and transparent,” emphasized Takaona.
The CNAZ chairman also warned against reviving the dark days of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (AIPPA), which was notorious for its restrictive media laws and arrest of media practitioners.
“Remember the closure of The Daily News and other newspapers, the arrest, torture, harassment, and detention of journalists by the Police and sometimes the Army,” Takaona cautioned.
Instead, CNAZ advocates for building on existing structures, with adjustments to enhance their effectiveness. This approach is grounded in the 2013 Zimbabwe Constitution, which provides for co-regulation and encourages associations to develop their own codes of conduct.
The debate surrounding co-regulation comes amid concerns about media freedom in Zimbabwe. Recent reports have highlighted the harassment of journalists and human rights activists, sparking international condemnation.
Recently Information Development Trust (IDT) director, Tawanda Majoni was invited for questioning by the Police over his X handle comments on current affairs.
