Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Minister Christopher Mushohwe has deplored polarization in the media sector saying it is unhealthy, counterproductive, unprofessional and extremely deplorable.
In a speech read on his behalf by the Deputy Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Cde Thokozile Mathuthu at the World Press Freedom Day commemorations held in Harare on Wednesday, Mushohwe urged the media to guard jealously against abuse by those burnt on destabilising societies.
Mushohwe said the media should remain ethical and professional in discharging its duties.
“It is a clarion call to the media to remind all journalists that they need to guard jealously their profession against abuse by those bent on destabilising our societies,” he said.
Mushohwe said the media plays a critical role in promoting peace, unity and cohesion within communities and within nations.
“I don’t doubt that you will rise to the occasion today and find solutions to this scourge, which has afflicted our media each time our nations goes to general elections. Allowing our media to be abused by politicians does not help to build a cohesive and professional industry. Such abuse is a bane on our society, divisive and retrogressive,” he said.
Minister Mushohwe also committed to openness and free engagement between government and the media saying there is need for mutual trust between the two institutions.
Journalists from different media houses, diplomatic representatives and government officials attended the commemorations held under the theme: ‘Critical Minds for Critical Times: Media’s Role In Advancing Peace, Just And Inclusive Societies’.
