adminHerald Reporter
THE National Peace and Reconciliation Commission (NPRC) has implored the media and the security sector to improve their working relationship during the lockdown period, as the country continues its battle against the Covid-19 pandemic.
In its Covid-19 Lockdown Mid-Term Review Statement yesterday, the NPRC urged the media to practise responsible journalism in its reportage on the pandemic and the security sector to exercise restraint when dealing with offenders.
The commission commended President Mnangagwa and his Government for successfully leading the nation in the management of the Covid-19 pandemic since the proclamation of the 21-day lockdown period.
There had been a commendable level of compliance by citizens, although some attempted to defy the lockdown measures.
NPRC said there was also remarkable restraint by law enforcement officers despite the actions of a few misguided and undisciplined elements who tarnished the image of the security sector by abusing citizens.
“The Commission continues to implore cooperation between the State and citizens during the remaining days of the lockdown,” said NPRC.
“The media played a positive role in informing the nation on Covid-19, the lockdown, compliance by the citizens and enforcement by the security sector.
“There is need for an improvement of relations between the media and the security sector. The Commission implores the media to practise responsible and peace journalism by avoiding sensationalised reportage.
“The security sector is also urged to respect the constitutional rights of all accredited media practitioners. Both the security sector and the media are critical and are urged to exercise restraint, maturity, respect and tolerance towards each other in the performance of their constitutional obligations.”
In light of the increase in Gender Based Violence (GBV), there was need for families to take advantage of the lockdown to build sound relationships, mend broken ones, appreciate one another and live in peaceful co-existence.
NPRC thanked Government for the initiative to provide safety nets for the vulnerable citizens and urged transparency, fairness and non-partisanship in the registration of beneficiaries and the distribution of resources.
“All stakeholders in the value chain are implored to desist from corrupt and profiteering tendencies,” said NPRC.
Online Reporter