Seven Journalists Chased Out Of State House
State security officers Monday chased out seven journalists from State House where President Emmerson Mnangagwa was swearing in a three-member tribunal to investigate the removal from office of Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) spokesperson John Makamure.
NewsDay chief reporter Taurai Mangudhla, photographer Shepherd Tozvireva, Heart and Soul head of current affairs and news Blessed Mhlanga and reporters Chengeto Chidi, Zibusiso Ncube and Atrishya Gondo were booted out by one of the security personnel without giving reasons.
Daily News reporter Katty Nyoni was also ejected.
This happened soon after the journalists had gone through the routine security clearance process plus COVID-19 tests at the State House clinic, according to NewsDay.
Meanwhile, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) spokesperson, Fadzayi Mahere has criticised the ejection of journalists from a public event. She said:
What kind of “government” chases journalists away from a national event paid for by taxpayers? It’s unconstitutional. You can’t only allow journalists you like and control. Media freedom is impossible under this regime. We need new leaders.
AMH is owned by Trevor Ncube, a former member of the Presidential Advisory Council (PAC). He left PAC early this year citing a lot of issues bordering on President Mnangagwa‘s failure to transform the country’s fortunes.
This ejection of the reporters comes amid calls for the implementation of media reforms to ensure the freedom of journalists and media houses.
