FXI continues to be horrified at the events unfolding in Zimbabwe. As if the detention and torture of senior reporter Ray Choto and editor Mark Chavunduka were not enough, the authorities went further and detained the managing director. Apart from showing scant regard for the rule of law by not releasing Choto and Chavunduka despite orders from the High Court, the authorities compounded their repressive and tyrannous actions yesterday when the police clamped down viciously on a demonstration mounted by lawyers, human rights activists and concerned citizens.

Zimbabwe's record on human rights has been sadly lacking but in the area of freedom of expression it is almost non-existent. The flow of information has consistently been hindered by the iron grip of government on the broadcast media and much of the popular press. It has, however, taken this incident for that government to reveal just how extreme its intolerance of press freedom is.

We commend Choto and Chavunduka for their pioneering journalism, for standing firm, and for advancing the protection of media sources. We also support the call for an investigation into the torture allegations and lack of police action during the journalists' illegal detention.

In conclusion, FXI would also like to register its concern regarding the dismal state of freedom of expression in the region which suggests a hardening of political attitudes. The Namibian democracy together with its enlightened Constitution provided hope and inspiration for many still fighting the struggle in South Africa in the early nineties. The peace agreements and elections in Angola also in the early nineties suggested that peace and stability may come to Angola. Both these countries are seen to be increasing their control of the media and have recently voiced their dissatisfaction with the media particularly when it is seen to be reporting in a negative manner on government actions or is in any way critical of government policy.

Freedom of expression has been recognized as an essential cornerstone of democracy and the role of the press in fostering debate and ensuring public participation, transparency and accountability of government, is indisputable. A curtailment of freedom of expression can therefore only bode ill for Zimbabwe, Namibia and Angola.

Issued by: Laura Pollecutt (Executive Director) 011 403 8403