Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Shania Lazarus
Published on 2024-02-21 14:45:29
The Southern African Editors Forum (SAEF) has strongly criticized the reported harassment of reporters from NewsHawks, an online investigative newspaper, over a story involving Zimbabwean military generals. In a statement released by SAEF on Tuesday, it was revealed that NewsHawks was compelled to halt an investigation into corruption allegations against three army generals in the Zimbabwean defense force.
The publication alleges that it made the decision to suspend the investigation and remove journalists from the story to ensure their safety and well-being in the face of alleged surveillance and threats. News editor Owen Gagare has been particularly targeted, with similar threats being directed at another reporter over a previous critical piece.
“Self-censorship and silence are not an option in investigative journalism. Unfortunately, we are forced to make some strategic decisions, at least for the time being,” said Gagare.
SAEF secretary general Joseph Ailonga expressed full support for the measures taken by NewsHawks. However, he emphasized that as a member state of the United Nations (UN), the Zimbabwean government is obligated by international treaties to uphold the safety and protection of journalists.
“We totally agree and support measures taken by NewsHawks, however, the Zimbabwean government, as a United Nations (UN) member state, is bound by treaties that advocate for the safety of journalists,” said Ailonga.
Ailonga urged President Emmerson Mnangagwa to intervene and instruct intelligence agencies to cease their harassment of journalists.
“No one is above the law, not even intelligence that purports to protect the sovereignty of a country. Corruption is corruption and should not be entertained,” emphasized Ailonga.
The Southern African Editors Forum has made a strong stand against the alleged harassment of journalists and has called for the intervention of the Zimbabwean government to ensure the safety and well-being of media personnel. This incident not only undermines the principles of press freedom but also poses a threat to investigative journalism and the ability of journalists to report on matters of public interest without fear of retribution.
As the situation stands, it is crucial for the Zimbabwean government to uphold its obligations as a member state of the United Nations and take action to protect journalists from any form of harassment or intimidation. Supporting and ensuring the safety of journalists is fundamental to maintaining a free and vibrant press, which in turn is essential for the protection of democratic values and the promotion of transparency and accountability within society.
In conclusion, the Southern African Editors Forum stands in solidarity with NewsHawks and all journalists who have been subjected to harassment or intimidation. The forum calls on the Zimbabwean government to respect the rights of journalists and uphold the principles of press freedom and freedom of expression, as enshrined in international treaties and conventions. It is only through such measures that the media can continue to play a crucial role in holding those in power accountable and serving as a watchdog for the public interest.
Read the original article on The Namibian
