Media Commission Promotes Responsible Journalism Ahead of Elections
By Caleb Chikwawawa
The Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC), as the regulator of the media industry in the country, is taking proactive measures to ensure that media professionals fulfill their role effectively and responsibly in the upcoming elections.
Speaking to journalists in Harare, Professor Ruby Magosvongwe, chairperson of the ZMC, highlighted the vital role of the media in facilitating communication between contestants and voters.
She emphasized that a professional and responsible media contributes to the free flow of information, enabling citizens to make well-informed decisions.
“As the fourth estate, the media plays a crucial role in providing a platform for public debate, scrutinizing candidates’ policies and political parties, and informing the public. By doing so, it empowers voters to make informed decisions when they cast their votes,” Professor Magosvongwe said.
In line with its legal obligations, the ZMC has taken significant steps to equip media professionals for their role in the forthcoming elections.
The commission has recently launched the Elections Reporting and Peace Journalism Manual, a comprehensive guide addressing essential aspects of media coverage during the election period.
The manual covers various critical topics, including peace reporting, violence and conflict resolution, the safety of journalists, and the involvement of women and youths in elections.
It provides media professionals with guidelines on reporting responsibly and ethically, promoting peace and harmony, and ensuring accurate information reaches the public.
Moreover, the ZMC is actively engaged in enhancing the security of journalists during the elections. Recognizing the importance of their work, the commission has procured Press Jackets for all practitioners covering the elections.
These jackets aim to increase the visibility of journalists and enable easy identification, contributing to their safety and reducing potential risks.
