Investigative Journalist Watson Flexy Munyaka Murdered in Zimbabwe: RSF Calls for Justice

Watson Flexy Munyaka, an investigative journalist, was murdered in Zimbabwe on March 17. Reporters Without Borders condemned the brutal act, urging authorities to ensure a thorough investigation. Munyaka was known for his work at Dug Up, which focused on corruption. His death highlights the ongoing violence against journalists and repression of press freedom in Zimbabwe, where another journalist was recently detained for criticism of the government.

On March 17, investigative journalist Watson Flexy Munyaka was brutally murdered in Marondera, Zimbabwe, after being thrown from a moving vehicle. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has condemned this egregious act and called upon the Zimbabwean authorities to thoroughly investigate the crime and ensure that all offenders face justice. The circumstances surrounding this case are alarming and highlight the perilous environment for journalists in the region.

Watson Flexy Munyaka’s body was discovered in a central neighborhood of Marondera, southeast of Harare. His death marks a shocking instance of violence directed at investigative journalists. Following the incident, he was transported to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Munyaka was a co-founder of Dug Up, an independent journalism collective established to investigate corruption and crime in Zimbabwe. Maynard Manyowa, a senior producer for the collective, remarked, “Watson was our man on the ground. He was the one who allowed us to conduct in-depth investigations in Zimbabwe.” Only days before his death, Dug Up had released a report on ZANU-PF, the ruling party, which included videos of internal disputes between its leadership that were shared on YouTube.

An investigation was initiated on March 17 to determine the motives and circumstances surrounding Munyaka’s murder. RSF emphasized the importance of bringing to justice those responsible for perpetrating violence against journalists. The content Munyaka covered, including sensitive topics such as corruption, drug trafficking, and poaching, reflects the urgent need for protective measures for investigative reporters in Zimbabwe.

Between 2017 and 2019, Munyaka was affiliated with Khuluma Afrika, where he notably reported on ivory poaching. He also contributed to discussions on Power 987 FM, a South African radio station. In recent months with Dug Up, he had conducted in-depth investigations into serious allegations involving drug-related scandals and fraudulent cures for diseases. His findings were slated for publication in April.

This tragic murder occurs alongside a broader crackdown on dissent and criticism against the Zimbabwean government. Recently, journalist Blessed Mhlanga of Alpha Media Holdings was detained, facing accusations of “inciting hatred” for covering critical comments made by a war veteran regarding President Emmerson Mnangagwa. According to the 2024 RSF World Press Freedom Index, Zimbabwe holds the 116th position out of 180 countries and territories assessed for media freedom.

The murder of Watson Flexy Munyaka serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by investigative journalists in Zimbabwe. RSF’s calls for a thorough and transparent investigation underline the necessity of protecting those who expose corruption and crime. As the media landscape continues to face repression in Zimbabwe, it is critical to advocate for the safety and freedom of journalists to uphold democratic values and accountability.

Original Source: rsf.org