In a striking incident that underscores the challenges faced by journalists in Zimbabwe, journalist Hopewell Chin’ono found himself blocked on social media by a government minister, Jenfan Muswere, after merely inquiring about the academic qualifications the minister claims to hold.
The situation raises critical questions about transparency and accountability within the country’s political landscape.
This is after week after week seems someone who is either a public figure or politician is exposed for holding fraud credintials.
Chin’ono’s inquiry was straightforward, as he sought evidence of Muswere’s reported two PhDs and an MBA. Instead of providing proof, the minister resorted to blocking the journalist, prompting Chin’ono to humorously reflect on the absurdity of being shut out for demanding accountability.
“I think I need a break from this app, folks—what do you think?” Chin’ono tweeted, highlighting the challenges journalists face when holding politicians accountable.
Chin’ono stressed that the role of real journalists is to hold politicians accountable for their actions, omissions, and unfulfilled promises, a duty that doesn’t change regardless of the discomfort it may cause the individuals in power.
“Zimbabwean politicians do not like that, but as journalists, it is not our job to care about what they like or not—our job is simply to do our job!” he stated emphatically.
