adminTanaka Mahanya
THE State has the responsibility to ensure that fundamental freedoms of expression and access to information are protected without hindrance, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Monica Mutsvangwa, has said.
Speaking at a belated World Press Freedom Day commemoration at Harare Polytechnic yesterday, the Minister said the Second Republic values freedom of expression and has made strides in the direction of enshrining and upholding the enjoyment of these rights.
World Press Freedom Day is celebrated on May 3 each year.
“Zimbabwe belatedly celebrates this day together with the rest of the world at a time the world is engaging with new but fundamental issues to the practice of journalism.
“These include conversations on the freedom of the press and what it means in the contemporary world, the safety of journalists as they do their jobs, and the public perceptions and loss of trust on the news media, and the profitability of the media businesses.
“Thus, we are in an era where we must search deep for solutions to the challenges of the business models of the broadcast, print and social media.”
She said the world had witnessed substantial progress towards achieving a free press and freedom of expression.
“We have, in the past 30 years, seen the proliferation of digital media platforms where professional journalism and citizens have all participated in making news together.
“This, of course, has come with its own positives and challenges.
“Government promises to prioritise upholding the Constitution and, as such, I would like to urge all media practitioners to freely execute their mandates of informing, educating, entertaining and playing watchdog roles without fear or favour.”
She said Government support should not be mistaken to mean media practitioners can misinform the general public or be unethical.
“As journalists go about their daily duties, they should remember to uphold the laws and statutes of the land.
“In July or August, the country will hold the 2023 harmonised elections.
“We encourage journalists to reliably inform and educate the nation on the upcoming elections.
“Government is committed to providing a safe operating media environment and to guaranteeing freedom of the press to ensure that media practitioners execute their duties freely.
“We strive to protect the rights of journalists at all times and strongly denounce acts of violence and harassment perpetrated on members of the media.
“Journalists should report any incidents of harassment and/or intimidation,” she said.
Online Reporter