George Charamba, the Deputy Chief Secretary for Presidential Communications, warned that authorities are closely monitoring online activity to clamp down on content perceived as destabilizing.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Charamba warned that law enforcement will not tolerate messages that “cause alarm and despondency” in the nation.
While officials argue that the measures aim to protect national stability, critics fear that the crackdown could target dissenting voices and restrict freedom of expression.
The announcement comes amid rising tensions in Zimbabwe’s political landscape, particularly regarding the government’s recent efforts to regulate digital spaces and control public discourse.
Charamba himself has been at the centre of speculation regarding his position, but he has dismissed claims of any shifts in his role.
Zimbabwe’s Cyber and Data Protection Act, enacted in 2021, already criminalizes certain online offenses, including the transmission of data messages that incite violence or cause harm.
However, the government is now drafting new legislation to further regulate social media platforms, aiming to curb misinformation and hold users accountable.
Information Minister Dr. Jenfan Muswere has stated that the new law will strengthen governance of digital spaces, addressing concerns about anonymous accounts spreading falsehoods.
Other nations, including South Africa, as well as the United Kingdom and the United States, have implemented similar measures to govern digital spaces and prevent cybercrime.
South Africa’s Cybercrimes Act addresses online offenses, while the UK’s Computer Misuse Act (1990) and the US’s Digital Millennium Copyright Act provide frameworks for cybersecurity regulation.
The government’s intensified monitoring of social media has raised concerns among journalists and activists.
Critics argue that vague definitions of “disruptive messages” could lead to arbitrary enforcement, potentially silencing dissenting voices.
Human rights organizations have warned that increased surveillance may discourage open discourse and limit press freedom.
With growing public reaction, the government’s stance is expected to spark heated debates on state security and digital freedoms in Zimbabwe.
Source: “You Won’t Go Scot-Free for Spreading Alarm and Despondency – Charamba” – AfroGazette