…as CCC bemoans media polarisation
EDWIN MOYO
Gweru- As the battle lines have been drawn ahead of the August 23 harmonised elections, the two main political protagonist, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) and Zanu PF have declared zero tolerance to violence.
The parties described acts of violence and intimidation as serious threats to the stability of the nation especially during election time.
The parties said this during the Zimbabwe Union of Journalists, political parties and media dialogue which was held recently at the Gweru Presbyterian Church.
Speaking at the engagement meeting, Zanu PF political and social analyst, Benjamin Edgar said the issue of political violence was supposed to be handled carefully as it is delicate matter in the country.
“When we talk of political violence lets understand that this is a very delicate and serious issue, which must be treated like an egg.
“As for us politicians, the media should know that, if a politician addresses violence don’t us provocative language in your reportage or promote violence.
“Don’t be used to publish things you don’t know or understand, as Zanu PF through our President Cde Mnangagwa we are preaching peace because we know that it is important to co-exist peacefully.
“Violence is not a sign of bravery, it is not something that you should brag about. Also, as leaders of opposition don’t brag about violence, whether opposition or ruling party we must be at the center of uniting all citizens despite our different political affiliations,” he added.
CCC Midlands Provincial youth leader, Judah Mike said as a party they were very considerate and cooperative in their work with journalists and stakeholders.
“As a party we strongly denounce any act of violence as we don’t have any record of violent tendencies since the party was formed and even our candidate selection processes were very peaceful.
“As politicians we feel pity for you journalists, there is a lot of discrimination which you encounter during the course of your duties. Sometimes if you come to cover a story and it’s found out that you are not from ZBC TV you are prevented from covering the story simply because you are not from state media.
“This leads to division along organizational lines and this may also lead to polirisation and may end up hating one of your own.
“We urge you to be united because your duty is to disseminate information to the public,” he added
ZUJ Secretary General, Perfect Hlongwane said journalists are very professional when carrying out their duties as they are guided by ethical standards.
“Journalist are always guided by ethical standards in their reportage. We know sometimes it is difficult for political leaders to understand how journalists carry out their duties as they ride on principles of good reportage.
“We therefore urge political leaders to prioritize the safety of journalists when they attend rallies as they are there to serve you and your parties,” said Hlongwane.
Meanwhile, journalists were urged to always carry their identification particulars whenever they go out to cover political rallies.
Civic Society Organisations in Zimbabwe recently urged the government and all law enforcement agencies to ensure that perpetrators of violence are brought to book.
They further called for all political parties to respect and protect the rights to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly during and after elections.