Zimbabwean Journalist Arrested for Satirical Column, Sparking Global Concern
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the global journalism community, Zimbabwean newspaper editor Faith Zaba was arrested on July 1, 2025, for publishing a satirical column that criticized President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has condemned the arrest, calling for Zaba’s immediate release.
According to Zaba’s lawyer, Chris Mhike, she was summoned to the central police station in Harare, where she was charged with "undermining or insulting the authority of the president" in connection with the June 27 column. The article, titled "Muckracker," described Zimbabwe as a "mafia state" and accused the government of interfering in the politics of neighboring countries. Zaba, who is the editor of the business weekly Zimbabwe Independent, could face a $300 fine or imprisonment not exceeding one year, or both, if convicted.
The CPJ has expressed concern over the arrest, with Africa Program Coordinator Muthoki Mumo stating, "This case sends the message that Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his administration are so fragile that they are easily threatened by a critical column." Mumo added, "It’s also a reminder of this government’s willingness to waste public resources by throwing journalists behind bars. Authorities in Zimbabwe must release Faith Zaba unconditionally and without delay."
Zaba’s arrest is not an isolated incident. The CPJ has documented an ongoing crackdown on dissent in Zimbabwe, with journalists facing arrest and detention for their work. In February, journalist Blessed Mhlanga was arrested and held for over 10 weeks on baseless charges of incitement in connection with his coverage of war veterans who demanded Mnangagwa’s resignation.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has yet to comment on Zaba’s arrest, with spokesperson Paul Nyathi failing to respond to CPJ’s requests for comment. Zaba’s bail hearing was deferred to July 3, pending verification of her medical history, as she was reportedly "severely ill" at the time of her arrest.
The international community is watching the situation closely, with many calling for Zaba’s release and an end to the harassment of journalists in Zimbabwe. As Mumo noted, "The arrest of Faith Zaba is a clear attempt to intimidate and silence journalists who dare to criticize the government. We urge the authorities to respect the rights of journalists and release Zaba immediately." The case highlights the ongoing struggle for press freedom in Zimbabwe and the need for governments to respect the rights of journalists to report freely and critically.
