Minister warns against abuse of media targeting officials

Source: Minister warns against abuse of media targeting officials – herald

Herald Reporter

GOVERNMENT has warned individuals and organisations that abuse digital and traditional media platforms to attack public officials, saying such people will be dealt with in accordance with the laws of Zimbabwe.

This comes as authorities increase scrutiny of coordinated smear campaigns that have been on the increase as people abuse the media, both traditional and digital, to spread fake news and misinformation.

In a statement, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere said Government was gravely concerned with the escalating and malicious abuse of digital and traditional media platforms by certain individuals and subversive cohorts whose clear intent is to tarnish the reputation of Government officials.

Dr Muswere said the actions amounted to more than legitimate criticism.

“This conduct transcends legitimate criticism and constitutes a deliberate character assassination, propagation of falsehoods and sowing of seeds of division among the peace-loving people of Zimbabwe,” he said.

Dr Muswere said the Government drew a clear line between lawful political discourse and criminal conduct, adding that constitutional freedoms must not be abused.

“The Government distinguishes between constructive, lawful political discourse and criminal behaviour,” he said.

“While Zimbabwe respects freedom of expression as provided for in the Constitution, this right does not extend to the dissemination of hate speech, or orchestrated campaigns of lies aimed at individuals performing their national duties.”

The minister said authorities would not hesitate to take action against those behind such attacks.

“Any person or entity found engaging in, financing, or promoting these unwarranted attacks will face the full force of the law,” he said.

Dr Muswere also called on citizens and media houses to exercise responsibility and professionalism in their reporting and use of media platforms.

“We call upon all citizens and media houses to act responsibly and patriotically,” he said.

“You must refuse to be instruments of chaos orchestrated by internal detractors and external hostile forces seeking to reverse the gains of our independence and sovereignty”.

The minister said the abuse of media platforms undermined national cohesion and threatens peace and stability.

He underlined that Government was committed to protecting the integrity of public institutions and office bearers while upholding constitutional provisions on freedom of expression.