Murder of Investigative Journalist Watson Flexy Munyaka: A Call for Justice in Zimbabwe
Watson Flexy Munyaka, a murdered investigative journalist, was thrown from a car on March 17 in Zimbabwe. RSF demands a thorough police investigation to ensure justice. Munyaka co-founded the collective Dug Up, revealing corruption and crime. His death reflects a trend of violence against journalists amid government repression, with Zimbabwe ranked poorly for press freedom.
Watson Flexy Munyaka, a well-known investigative journalist, was brutally murdered on March 17 after being thrown from a moving car in Marondera, Zimbabwe. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has condemned this severe act and urges the Zimbabwean authorities to ensure a thorough investigation to bring those responsible to justice.
The incident occurred in broad daylight, with Munyaka’s body found in a prominent area of the city. Following the attack, he was transported to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. This act signifies an alarming escalation of violence against journalists in the region.
Watson Flexy Munyaka co-founded the investigative journalism collective, Dug Up, which focuses on exposing corruption in Zimbabwe. Maynard Manyowa, a senior producer with the collective, emphasized Munyaka’s importance, stating, “Watson was our man on the ground. He was the one who allowed us to conduct in-depth investigations in Zimbabwe.” Just days before his death, Dug Up published a contentious report on the ruling party, ZANU-PF, and released videos about internal conflicts within its leadership.
The police launched an investigation immediately after Munyaka’s murder, aiming to reveal the motives and circumstances surrounding the crime. RSF has urged the authorities to act decisively, highlighting that Munyaka’s investigations focused on corruption, drug trafficking, and poaching, all critical public interest issues requiring accountability.
Throughout his career, Munyaka exposed significant criminal activities, including ivory poaching while at Khuluma Afrika, an investigative journalism center in Harare. He gained recognition as a commentator on current events on Power 987 FM. Before his death, he had been preparing to publish findings related to high-profile figures involved in scandals during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Munyaka’s murder is part of a broader trend of violence against journalists in Zimbabwe amidst increasing governmental oppression. The ongoing detention of journalist Blessed Mhlanga for alleged incitement further exemplifies this crackdown on free expression. Zimbabwe holds a concerning ranking of 116th out of 180 in the 2024 RSF World Press Freedom Index, indicative of its challenges regarding press freedom and safety for journalists.
The murder of Watson Flexy Munyaka underscores the escalating violence against investigative journalists in Zimbabwe, drawing attention to the critical need for protective measures and accountability. RSF’s call for thorough investigative action highlights the perilous climate for journalism in the region, further exacerbated by the ongoing crackdown on dissenting voices. The collective efforts to bring justice for Munyaka may set a precedent for safeguarding press freedoms in Zimbabwe.
Original Source: rsf.org
