Police on Monday quizzed the editor of the Zimbabwe Independent, Constantine Chimakure, and senior political reporter Wongai Zhangazha over a story about two MDC formations resisting attempts by Minister Saviour Kasukuwere, to re-introduce the National Youth Service training programme.
Chimakure's interrogation comes days after the Magistrates Court ordered the release of Standard newspaper editor Nevanji Madanhire and his reporter, Patience Nyangove.
Zanu (PF) officials are pushing for the enactment of a controversial new media gagging law that would criminalise the publication of judicial decisions and other official documents without ministerial approval.
The two journalists face jail time or a hefty fine if found guilty, in a case that highlights how journalism remains a risky occupation, despite some opening up of media space through the licensing of private newspapers.
The cash-strapped Zimbabwe Media Commission has threatened to ban foreign newspapers if they fail to register.
The move appears aimed at The Zimbabwean and its sister title The Zimbabwean on Sunday. The Mugabe regime has made spirited attempts to disrupt the operations of the newspapers by hijacking and burning the delivery truck and beating up the driver and his assistant.
The police have also issued an arrest warrant of veteran editor Wilf Mbanga in connection with an article critical of Mugabe that the authorities allege was published after the 2008 elections. It was in fact published by an online newspaper.
MISA official Nyasha Nyakunu said the ZMC threat would have a negative impact on the citizens’ right to access diverse information.
Post published in: News