Murder of Journalist Watson Flexy Munyaka Highlights Risks for Media in Zimbabwe
Watson Flexy Munyaka, a Zimbabwean investigative journalist, was murdered on March 17, 2025, after being thrown from a car. His death highlights the escalating violence against journalists in Zimbabwe amid a crackdown on dissent. Munyaka co-founded an investigative platform called Dug Up, focusing on corruption. Reports of his murder and police investigations reflect urgent concerns for media safety in the country.
The murder of investigative journalist Watson Flexy Munyaka on March 17, 2025, marks a dangerous trend for media professionals in Zimbabwe. Munyaka was brutally cast from a moving vehicle in broad daylight in Marondera. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) condemned this act, emphasizing the need for Zimbabwean authorities to ensure a thorough investigation and to hold those accountable for his death.
Munyaka co-founded Dug Up, a collective aimed at exposing corruption in Zimbabwe, in September 2024. His contributions were vital for conducting crucial investigations. The collective had previously released a report on internal conflicts within the ruling ZANU-PF party, which included videos highlighting tensions between the president and his vice-president, published days before Munyaka’s murder.
On the day of his death, police opened an investigation to uncover the motivations behind this incident. RSF’s Director for Sub-Saharan Africa, Sadibou Marong, emphasized that Munyaka’s murder illustrates the violent environment for investigative journalists tackling sensitive issues such as corruption and drug trafficking in Zimbabwe. Marong urged authorities to ensure justice for this heinous crime.
Prior to co-founding Dug Up, Munyaka reported for Khuluma Afrika and gained recognition for exposing ivory poaching in Zimbabwe. He notably analyzed current affairs on South African station Power 987 FM and was set to reveal sensitive cases involving high-profile figures such as Delish Nguwaya and Walter Magaya.
This incident fits into a broader pattern of suppression against media dissent in Zimbabwe, as seen with the detention of journalist Blessed Mhlanga, who faced charges for covering a critical press conference. The country ranked 116th out of 180 in the 2024 RSF World Press Freedom Index, reflecting a deteriorating landscape for media freedom.
The murder of Watson Flexy Munyaka underscores the escalating violence against journalists in Zimbabwe, particularly those challenging corruption. His passing not only highlights the risks faced by investigative reporters but also signals a troubling environment where media freedom is increasingly jeopardized. Calls for accountability by organizations like RSF emphasize the urgent need for protective measures for media professionals.
Original Source: ifex.org
