Harare (New Ziana) – The media must jealously guard against disinformation and fake news to ensure its integrity remains intact especially in the fight against corruption, an official has said.
The remarks were made by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZAAC)
chairperson, Michael Reza in Harare on Friday as Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere led officials from parastatals under his ministry’s purview in signing Integrity Pledges.
These include Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ), Transmedia, the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Authority, New Ziana and the Zimbabwe International Film and Television School in Southern Africa (ZIFTESSA).
“Your commitment to accuracy and truth is more important than ever. You must empower citizens with fact-based reporting in order to enhance transparency and accountability,” Reza said.
“In the digital age, the risk to your integrity is heightened. Fake news and manipulated content threatens the credibility of even the most reputable media outlets. It is in times like these that the integrity of information needs to pass the test. Integrity in reporting maintains public trust, as citizens rely on you to discern facts from fiction.
“Your role extends beyond reporting, to fostering public discourse and civic engagement. Media institutions operating with transparency and fairness ensure the public is informed and empowered for decision-making. The Integrity Pledge is a commitment to ethical
journalism that contributes to our society’s well-being and strengthens our fight against corruption.”
He said the National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS) recognises the media’s responsibility in informing the public on steps being made in mobilising them to actively participate in the fight against corruption and poke holes in existing legislation framework and policies and that independent media is necessary for promoting accountability and transparency.
In executing this mandate, Reza said the media has provided immeasurable support in terms of publicity, there-by playing a collaborative role in disseminating the anti-corruption message.
“Besides spreading the message, the media also holds the public and private to account, through investigative journalism which often gives us leads on where to direct our focus in terms of investigations and also corruption preventive measures,” he said.
“You have an immense role in influencing public opinion, informing the nation, and upholding our democratic values. Your work directly impacts the public perception of national programmes, governance, and policy.”
Reza said integrity is the cornerstone of responsible governance; ensuring economic growth is balanced with social equity and environmental sustainability. “Your commitment to integrity is essential in creating a corruption-resistant media environment dedicated to
promoting ethics. This pledge is a testament to your desire to contribute to a better and more transparent Zimbabwe,” he said.
“The fight against corruption requires a collective effort from every sector; government, civil society, the private sector, and institutions like the media which has the potential to expose corruption and promote accountability. This ensures all sectors adhere to integrity and
transparency.
“The media’s incredible capacity in exposing corruption and holding public officials accountable help to strengthen national institutions and restores public faith,” he said
Reza took the occasion to announce the introduction of the ZACC Media Awards to honour journalistic excellence in investigative reporting while exposing corruption and promoting ethical governance.
“Investigative journalism requires courage and dedication, and we hope to inspire others to join the fight against corruption,” he said.
“The Anti-Corruption Media Awards highlight the intersection of media and civic responsibility. When you expose corruption, you empower citizens to demand accountability, thereby fostering a culture of integrity.”
He said ZACC is committed to expanding the knowledge base of media staff by providing continuous training through anti-corruption reporting workshops and also giving timely updates on the strides and successes, adding that over 60 journalists have undergone training that equipped them with information to enhance their understanding of the government’s thrust in the fight against corruption.
Reza challenged the media organisations that signed the integrity pledge to consider setting up integrity committees in order to enhance the integrity of their respective institutions.
New Ziana