Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
THE Zimbabwe Media Commission has warned journalists and media practitioners against demanding money, fuel, allowances or other personal benefits in exchange for news coverage, favourable reporting or suppression of information.
The commission said it had received reports of journalists allegedly soliciting or demanding payment from individuals and organisations as a condition for covering events or refraining from publishing adverse stories.
In a statement, ZMC said such conduct, if substantiated, would constitute a serious breach of professional ethics and public trust.
“If proved, such conduct would constitute a grave betrayal of public trust and the professional duty of journalists,” reads the statement.
ZMC said its constitutional mandate included promoting and enforcing good practices and ethics in the media, formulating and enforcing applicable codes of conduct and receiving complaints from members of the public.
It said complaints will be investigated in accordance with the Zimbabwe Media Commission Act, which requires affected parties to be given an opportunity to respond before any adverse action is taken.
“Legitimate institutional arrangements for transport, accommodation, advertising or sponsorship are not automatically improper,” reads the statement. “The line is crossed when a payment or personal benefit is demanded as the price of editorial coverage, favourable treatment, suppression of information or protection from adverse reporting.”
ZMC said where threats or illegitimate pressure were used to extract money or other benefits, the conduct could amount to extortion under the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act.
The Commission said it will take action where allegations were substantiated following fair investigations, including making formal findings and orders or recommendations.
It could also notify the responsible media organisation, pursue court action where appropriate and refer suspected criminal conduct to the Zimbabwe Republic Police and competent prosecuting authorities.
“ZMC will not shield any media practitioner who abuses the profession for personal gain,” reads the statement.
Editors, publishers and newsroom managers have been urged to maintain clear rules separating advertising and sponsorship from editorial decisions, as well as policies governing gifts and facilitation.
