Tinotenda Hove -Albert Nguluvhe, Zimbabwe’s Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, has sparked controversy with his comments on media freedom. Speaking at a World Press Freedom Day event in Gwanda, Nguluvhe criticized the media for spreading misinformation, singling out social media platforms as key culprits.

“The level of fake news and misinformation has reached disturbing levels, and such a practice is detrimental to society,” Nguluvhe said. He also warned journalists to stay vigilant and report facts that tell the “real Zimbabwean story.”

However, critics argue that Nguluvhe’s comments are part of a broader pattern of government intimidation of independent media and silencing dissenting voices. A local journalist at the event remarked, “This was supposed to be a day for media empowerment, not another lecture on government narratives.”

Ironically, Nguluvhe stated, “Today marks a great day in the development of journalism and freedom of mankind through the dissemination of information that is correct and credible.” Yet, his message was seen as contradicting the ideals of World Press Freedom Day.

Nguluvhe’s comments have sparked outrage among press freedom advocates, who see them as a threat to media freedom in Zimbabwe.