Journalist denied access to RBZ meeting
5 Jun, 2024
What happened
A number of journalists were on 4 June 2024 barred from covering the signing of the “Integrity Pledge” by the new Reserve Bank Governor Dr John Mushayavanhu and his staff at the central bank’s offices in Harare.
The signing of the integrity pledge, which was overseen by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission chairperson Michael Reza, is a commitment to ethical practices and good governance by public officials.
Initially, only state media, particularly the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation, were allowed into the meeting, with the other journalists, about 16, being asked to leave.
After about 30 minutes, following complaints, 10 more journalists were allowed to witness the ceremony.
MISA's position
Key components of fighting the corruption scourge and promoting ethical and transparent governance include unfettered access to information and freedom of expression. We, thus, find it ironic that journalists were barred from a meeting where the subject of discussion was inclusive development, promotion of good governance, transparency, accountability, integrity, and the rule of law.
MISA Zimbabwe urges all stakeholders to give equal opportunity to all media houses, public and private, as espoused in our Constitution as this fosters a culture of diversity of views.
About MISA
The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) was founded in 1992. Its work focuses on promoting, and advocating for, the unhindered enjoyment of freedom of expression, access to information and a free, independent, diverse and pluralistic media.
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Latest media violations
Those affected:
A number of journalists
A number of journalists
Number affected:
16
16
Perpetrators:
Reserve Bank Governor Dr John Mushayavanhu and his staff at the central bank
Reserve Bank Governor Dr John Mushayavanhu and his staff at the central bank
Types of actors:
Quasi-state
Quasi-state
Location:
Harare
Harare