Online Reporter
The Zimbabwe Online Content Creators (ZOCC) has lodged a formal complaint with the Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC) against podcaster Owen Madondo, popularly known as Ollah7, over alleged restrictions on journalists covering the funeral of businessman Wicknell Chivayo.
In a statement, ZOCC said it had received complaints that Ollah7 was allegedly instructing security personnel to bar accredited journalists and independent online content creators from accessing the funeral proceedings, while allowing his production crew and selected media outlets to cover the event.
ZOCC said it subsequently engaged the Chivayo family spokesperson, Mr Herbert Chivayo, who reportedly confirmed that all journalists and content creators were welcome to cover the funeral.
The organisation said the alleged restrictions were unacceptable, particularly because Chivayo was accorded provincial hero status, making his funeral an event of significant public interest.
ZOCC accused Madondo’s alleged actions of undermining media freedom and pluralism, citing Section 61 of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression and the media.
The organisation has called on the ZMC to investigate the matter and take appropriate action, while warning Ollah7 to cease any alleged interference with journalists and digital content creators carrying out their professional duties.
