Murder of Journalist Watson Flexy Munyaka Raises Alarm on Press…

Watson Flexy Munyaka, an investigative journalist, was murdered on 17 March, sparking outrage and condemnation from Reporters Without Borders. Known for his work on corruption, Munyaka was a founding member of Dug Up, an independent journalism collective. His murder reflects the dangerous climate for journalists in Zimbabwe, marked by rising violence and government crackdowns on dissent, including the detention of journalist Blessed Mhlanga.

The tragic murder of investigative journalist Watson Flexy Munyaka on 17 March has brought attention to the escalating threats faced by journalists reporting on corruption in Zimbabwe. Munyaka’s body was discovered in a central Marondera neighborhood after he was violently thrown from a moving vehicle. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has condemned this brutal act and is urging Zimbabwean authorities to conduct a thorough investigation to hold those responsible accountable.

Munyaka was instrumental in the establishment of Dug Up, a collective of independent investigative journalists focused on exposing corruption and crime. Maynard Manyowa, senior producer at Dug Up, praised Munyaka’s vital role, stating, “Watson was our man on the ground… allowed us to conduct in-depth investigations.” Only days before his murder, Dug Up published a report on internal disputes within the ruling Zimbabwe African National Union – Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF).

In response to the murder, police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the crime. RSF emphasizes the importance of bringing justice to Munyaka’s case, highlighting the dangerous climate for investigative journalists in Zimbabwe. Sadibou Marong, RSF Sub-Saharan Africa Director, underscored the significance of Munyaka’s work, stating, “…his heinous murder, which highlights the climate of violence faced by investigative journalists in Zimbabwe, must not go unpunished.”

Munyaka had a notable career prior to his work at Dug Up, including a journalism role at Khuluma Afrika, where he exposed ivory poaching. Additionally, he frequently appeared on South African radio, analyzing significant current events. His recent investigations tackled sensitive topics, including corruption linked to business figures during the pandemic, as well as medical malpractice allegations against a preacher.

Amid escalating violence against journalists, Zimbabwe is witnessing increasing crackdowns on dissent. Journalist Blessed Mhlanga has been detained since late February, wrongfully accused of inciting hatred after covering critical remarks made about President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Zimbabwe ranks 116th in the 2024 RSF World Press Freedom Index, indicating a troubling environment for press freedom.

The murder of Watson Flexy Munyaka underscores a perilous atmosphere for journalists in Zimbabwe, particularly those exposing corruption and misconduct. Reporters Without Borders calls for accountability and thorough investigations into his death, reflecting the broader challenges faced by independent media in the region. The recent detention of journalist Blessed Mhlanga highlights the pressing need for protection of press freedom, as these incidents demonstrate an alarming crackdown on journalists in the country.

Original Source: ifex.org