Zimbabwe’s Judicial Service Commission (JSC) rejected Bustop-TV’s request to film and live-stream the court proceedings involving Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu.
While the JSC acknowledges the public’s right to attend court sessions, it maintains that filming and live-streaming are not customary in Zimbabwe. They referenced the case of Nelson Chamisa versus Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa (CCZ 21/19) for guidance on live-streaming procedures.
The JSC advised Bustop-TV to file an application directly with the court overseeing the case.
Lucky Aaroni, a journalist with Bustop-TV , expressed disappointment. He believes live-streaming is vital for transparency and public access to the judicial process. Denying this request restricts the public’s ability to witness court proceedings.
“The decision undermines the public’s right to access information and infringes on their constitutional rights.
“We believe that live-streaming court proceedings is essential for transparency and accountability. By denying our request, the court is essentially restricting the public’s ability to witness and engage with the judicial process,” he said.
Aaroni highlighted the importance of live-streaming in promoting public interest and access to information.
“This is a clear violation of the public’s right to know and access information. We’re not only fighting for our right to broadcast but also for the public’s right to access information,” he said.
Bustop-TV is now consulting with the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) to explore their options and determine how to proceed.
The JSC’s decision appears to contradict Section 69 of the Zimbabwean Constitution, which guarantees open and fair court trials. This provision is meant to ensure transparency within the judiciary and allow citizens to engage with the legal system.
