By A Correspondent
The Information for Development Trust (IDT), a non-profit focused on enhancing transparency and accountability in governance, has condemned the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) for transforming into a mouthpiece for the ruling ZANU PF party. The IDT argues that this shift has worsened political divisions and undermines the public’s trust, especially considering the broadcaster is primarily funded by ordinary citizens.
“This bias not only betrays public trust, but also obstructs the creation of political tolerance and national unity in Zimbabwe,” stated the IDT in a recent public release.
The IDT claims that ZBC, which is largely financed by vehicle license fees from motorists, has strayed from its original purpose as a national broadcaster. The Trust argues that instead of serving the broader public, ZBC now functions primarily as a platform to further ZANU PF’s political agenda, silencing opposition voices and fostering division. The IDT sees this as not just biased reporting, but a broader structural failure that hinders meaningful political dialogue in the country.
In their statement, the IDT noted, “ZBC’s failure to represent the diversity of Zimbabwean society has diminished its relevance, with many questioning the justification for continuing to fund an institution that no longer reflects their interests.” They also emphasized that because ZBC relies on motorists for around 80% of its funding, it has a heightened responsibility to provide impartial and balanced coverage. “These funds, sourced from ordinary citizens, should ensure that the broadcaster acts in the public’s interest, offering a platform for a variety of opinions,” the IDT asserted.
Despite these obligations, the IDT criticizes ZBC for repeatedly prioritizing the interests of ZANU PF, while marginalizing opposition parties and dissenting voices. This, the Trust argues, has led to growing feelings of alienation among citizens, contributing to a more polarized political climate.
The IDT stated, “Motorists, who are effectively taxpayers, have a right to expect impartiality and accountability from ZBC. Instead, they are subjected to biased reporting that undermines democratic ideals and discourages meaningful political participation.”
The organization is calling for urgent reforms, urging ZBC to transform into a true Public Service Broadcaster. “ZBC must adopt measures to ensure it provides diverse and unbiased coverage,” the IDT insisted. The Trust advocates for equal airtime for all political parties, a greater representation of dissenting voices, and the cultivation of a more tolerant political environment.
Furthermore, the IDT calls on lawmakers to prioritize impartiality and diversity in ZBC’s programming as they debate the Broadcasting Services Bill. “As Parliament continues its discussions on the Broadcasting Services Bill, lawmakers must focus on clauses that demand impartiality and diversity in ZBC’s programming,” the IDT recommended. They also support the establishment of independent oversight mechanisms to ensure adherence to these standards, with the ultimate goal of using public resources to foster a media landscape that promotes unity.
Concluding its statement, the IDT emphasized that ZBC must abandon its partisan approach and refocus on its mission as a national broadcaster. “By overcoming its partisan bias and fulfilling its role as a national broadcaster, ZBC can begin to mend the divisions it has contributed to,” the organization concluded.