By Fanuel Chinowaita
Rusape, Zimbabwe – February 6, 2025
Chief Makoni, a prominent traditional leader in Makoni District, has sparked controversy after reportedly blocking several media houses, including Karanganda TV, Chibanda Media, ZBC, Manica Post, Nhimbe TV, and Tichkach TV, from covering his court proceedings last week.
According to a reliable source, Chief Makoni justified his actions by claiming that Tinashe Mugabe, a private individual, had paid a substantial sum for exclusive coverage.
He allegedly stated, “Tinashe Mugabe paid a lot of money, and if they [other media houses] want to cover, they have to pay more than he paid”.
This move has raised serious concerns about transparency and accountability, particularly in light of Zimbabwe’s constitutional provisions. Section 281(1)(a) of the Constitution mandates that traditional leaders, including chiefs, must act in accordance with the Constitution and the laws of Zimbabwe.
Additionally, Section 62 guarantees every citizen, permanent resident, and juristic person, including the media, the right to access information held by the state or any government institution, especially when such information is in the interest of public accountability.
By barring media coverage and allegedly demanding payment, Chief Makoni appears to have violated these constitutional provisions.
His actions also raise questions about the ethics of journalism and the role of traditional leaders in upholding democratic principles. Critics argue that such behavior undermines public trust and sets a dangerous precedent for media freedom in Zimbabwe.
Efforts to obtain a comment from Chief Makoni were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to inquiries. This silence has only fueled speculation about the motives behind his decision to restrict media access.
The incident comes amid ongoing tensions in Makoni District, where Chief Makoni has been embroiled in boundary disputes with other traditional leaders, including Chief Chiduku. These disputes have previously led to violent clashes and legal battles, further complicating the region’s governance.
As the situation unfolds, legal experts and media advocacy groups are calling for an investigation into Chief Makoni’s actions. They emphasize the importance of upholding constitutional rights and ensuring that traditional leaders operate within the bounds of the law.
This development highlights the delicate balance between traditional authority and modern democratic principles, underscoring the need for greater accountability and transparency in Zimbabwe’s governance structures.