Journalists detained and later released
1 Apr, 2025
What happened
Journalist Canaan Rusike was detained by police while conducting street interviews about the planned demonstrations in Harare on March 31, 2025.
MISA Zimbabwe secured Rusike’s release after dispatching lawyers. The police released him without charges after verifying his journalistic credentials. Earlier, he duly presented his Zimbabwe Media Commission accreditation card to the police.
Rusike was detained for close to six hours at Harare Central Police Station.
Meanwhile, nine other journalists were reportedly rounded up and taken to Harare Central Police Station while covering protests near the Magistrates Courts in Harare. They were briefly detained and released after the police verified they were indeed duly accredited journalists.
MISA's position
Journalists are responsible for providing the public with access to information and should be permitted to conduct their lawful professional duties without hindrance, as guaranteed by the Constitution.
MISA Zimbabwe also urges journalists to adhere to the profession’s code of ethics and safety and security manuals while on duty.
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:
Journalist Canaan Rusike
Journalist Canaan Rusike
Number affected:
1
1
Perpetrators:
Zimbabwe Republic Police
Zimbabwe Republic Police
Types of actors:
State
State
Location:
Harare
Harare