Articles by Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA)
In landmark decision, African court rules imprisonment for defamation violates free expression
The African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights decision in the case of journalist Issa Lohé Konaté sends a strong message that governments may not use severe criminal penalties to stifle public debate and reporting on matters of public interest.
Mozambique fourth southern African country to adopt access to info law
Mozambique’s access to information bill seeks to create greater transparency and generate public participation. However, it has also been the subject of some criticism with respect to whether it adequately enforces the right in all its dimensions.
Political parties, security forces must uphold journalists’ safety during election period
“The safety Namibian journalists enjoyed is waning, and those committed to democracy, media freedom, access to information and freedom of expression need to join our call for the safety of journalists,” MISA Namibia’s national director Natasha Tibinyane says.
Zimbabwe’s first lady lashes out at privately-owned media
MISA-Zimbabwe notes with very grave concern recent attacks and threats against the privately owned media, by Zanu PF and government officials, including the First Lady Grace Mugabe.
Botswana: Access to information, balanced coverage essential for fair, credible elections
The Media Institute of Southern Africa recently observed the conduct of the media and electoral bodies during Botswana’s 2014 parliamentary and local government elections, held on 24 October 2014. The mission found that the media performed well, though there could be improvements.
Youth minister threatens to dismiss University of Zambia radio staff
Youth and Sport Minister Chishimba Kambwili has threatened to dismiss reporters at UNZA Radio, and has accused them of being sponsored by his enemies.
South Sudan: Sweeping powers in National Security Service Bill will undermine free expression
The proposed bill would mandate the National Security Service to monitor communications systems, newspapers and radio stations “in respect to security interest so as to prevent misuse by users.”
Report examines southern Africa’s most open and secretive institutions in 2014
On 28 September, the Media Institute of Southern Africa marked International Right to Information Day by launching Government Secrecy in an Information Age: 2014 Report on Open & Secretive Public Institutions in Southern Africa.