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Michael Magoronga Midlands Correspondent
Mbizo legislator Settlement Chikwinya (MDC-Alliance) has commended Government for its efforts in repealing media laws, saying it is a sign of the Government’s commitment to continue promoting democracy.

Mr Chikwiniya, who is a member of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Media, Information and Broadcasting Services, said Government was proving beyond any reasonable doubt that it was dedicated to achieving a democratic State.

He made the remarks during World Press Freedom Day commemorations that are held on May 3 every year.

“The media find themselves at the heart of establishing a desired democratic state as enshrined in the preamble of our Constitution. This year’s celebrations come at a time when the Government is preparing to repeal AIPPA and replace it with three laws, namely Zimbabwe Media Commission Bill, Freedom of Information Bill and the Protection of Personal Information/Data Protection Bill. The Broadcasting Act will equally be amended during this period as well,” he said.

He said the details of the new legislations should, however, remain alive to bringing about the desired media reforms.

He called on Government to expedite the digitisation programme which should see 12 new television stations being established in the country.

“”Parliament shall be calling on the Executive to speedily complete the digitisation programme, which should see 12 television stations and 10 community radio stations being established as per 2019 National Budget,” he said.

Mr Chikwinya challenged journalists to up their game in the face of ever growing social media.

“Allow me to thank the multitudes of citizen journalists who through the social media have kept public office bearers in check. The fifth revolution has provided a platform which ensures that citizen journalism has become a speedy vehicle of information. Traditional media platforms like print and electronic media should, therefore, up their game for them to remain relevant in the digital times,” he said.

He also challenged journalists to report factually, shun bias and do away with destroying the nation through negative reportage.

“Some media houses simply choose to misinform. Media are, however, called at all material times to adequately and truthfully inform citizens on critical issues within the society,” he said.