No freedom after expression in Zimbabwe

No freedom after expression in Zimbabwe

Constitution of Zimbabwe

Article number: 20

(1) Except with his own consent or by way of parental discipline, no person shall be hindered in the enjoyment of his freedom of expression, that is to say, freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference, and freedom from interference with his correspondence.

This right is one of the most precious of all guaranteed freedoms. It serves four broad special purposes. It helps individuals obtain self fulfillment, it assist in the discovery of truth, it strengthens the capacity of an individual to participate in decision making and provides a mechanism by which it would be possible to establish a reasonable balance between stability and social change. Activism is by no means merely a freedom of expression being exercised. Many Zimbabwean activists share a deep desire for change, a purpose greater than oneself.

Broadcasting licenses have been consistently denied to independent and community radio stations but granted to government-affiliated organizations. Moreover, independent outlets that campaign for licenses face harassment and persecution from the authorities. That's why the #ThisFlag campaign exists - to challenge people to speak out about injustice without fear. With a global following its no wonder the Zimbabwean government is so intimidated by the internet. They have resorted to every form of political intimidation to place fear in every Zimbabwean citizen. The disappearance of Itai Dzamara is a prime example of the length the government will go, to detract from the country’s deteriorating socio-economic and political conditions in the country.

As activists we know that social media has by far contributed to the freedom of expression in Zimbabweans. In 2016 Zimbabwe had an internet penetration rate of around 16.4% and yet social movements like #Thisflag #Tajamuka #Thisflower have made an impact.

While it may seem like activists in Zimbabwe have been left to do the dirty work on the ground, whilst activists in the Diaspora are considered less significant because they are able to hold peaceful demonstrations without the fear of the police and national army. - albeit they face numerous risks as returnees to Zimbabwe.

Online discussions by ordinary people brings to the fore liberation and a freedom of expression to the previously unheard voices. The internet and social media has given the ordinary citizen a voice and self expression which has made it possible for debates and tensions to be expressed. This has helped expose critical issues that are at the root of a lot of Zimbabwe’s problems. In my opinion it's more selfish to be aware of the problems happening in our beloved country and turn a blind eye because we are in the Diaspora.

The right to freedom of expression, assembly and association allows for healthy and strong democracy in any country or political system. In order for this right to be protected the Government of Zimbabwe should:

• Uphold its constitutional obligations to respect the right to freedom of expression, assembly and association.
• Amend repressive legislation that is incompatible with international human rights law and standards on freedom of expression, assembly and association such as POSA( Public Order &  Security Act, AIPPA ( Access to Information & Privacy Protection Act) and the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act.
• Repeal the Broadcasting Services Act which also impinges on journalists' rights.
• Ensure that laws and regulations governing the media are in accordance with regional and international human rights law and standards regarding freedom of expression, assembly and association