Media rights group Committee to Protect Journalists has called on Zimbabwean authorities to investigate the brutal assault of four journalists working for private media outlets by ruling ZANU PF party supporters while covering political rallies.
The reporters – Chelsea Mashayaombe, Pellagia Mpurwa, Tongai Mwenje and Toneo Rutsito – were assaulted on Thursday after filming a convoy of 20 ZANU PF vehicles that were blockading a road ahead of a rally by opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa in Gokwe town.
About 10 ZANU PF supporters allegedly punched and kicked the journalists and ordered them to delete their photos and videos. The assailants confiscated mobile phones, a camera and car keys from some of the journalists.
“Zimbabwean authorities must investigate and hold those responsible to account for Thursday’s brutal assault of four journalists in Gokwe, and ensure that the press can report freely without fear of attack, especially with the country set to hold national elections next year,” CPJ Africa programme coordinator Angela Quintal said.
She slammed the high levels of impunity exhibited ruling party and government officials in Zimbabwe since they know that nothing would happen to them.
“Impunity for crimes against journalists remains high in Zimbabwe, and it is time that authorities arrest and prosecute those who believe that it is open season on the press.”
The journalists were treated at a clinic in Gokwe and filed a complaint with the police.
JN/APA