Freedom of expression may be in jeopardy in Zimbabwe – at least President Emmerson Mnangagwa signed into law a worrying law.
Just over a month before elections in South Africa’s Zimbabwe, a law came into force that threatens to severely restrict freedom of expression. Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa signed the so-called “Patriotic Law” which, among other things, criminalizes anyone who “willfully violates the sovereignty and national interests of Zimbabwe”.
The opposition described the law as the government’s means of severely restricting freedom of expression and the press ahead of the August 23 presidential and parliamentary elections.
There is a risk of criminal prosecution
Demanding sanctions against the country carries a prison sentence of 20 years or even the death penalty if the crime is classified as treason. Critics fear the act is so vague that any citizen who criticizes the government could be prosecuted. According to the ruling party, the law aims to protect Zimbabwe from domestic critics and “foreign interference” in the elections.
“What is worrying is that this law is very draconian, it will affect civil society, it will affect individuals. It will undermine freedom of association, freedom of assembly and freedom of expression,” said Wilbert Mandinde of Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum. “People will have to censor themselves.”
Mnangagwa (80) is seeking a second term in the country of 16 million people. Since the beginning of the year, dozens of opposition politicians have been arrested in the country, which has been mired in an economic crisis for decades. Human rights activists warn of politically motivated violence and oppression of the opposition and civil society.
Source: Stern
I have been working in the news industry for over 6 years, first as a reporter and now as an editor. I have covered politics extensively, and my work has appeared in major newspapers and online news outlets around the world. In addition to my writing, I also contribute regularly to 24 Hours World.
