Vongai Masuka

Gender and Media Connect (GMC) has appealed to the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Cooperation to conduct thorough Investigations  on allegations of sexual harassment being laid against Robson Mhandu, a senior staff member at ZBC.

In a statement, GMC said the CEO, Board and  relevant committees should investigate the case thoroughly and ensure justice is served.

“Our mandate is  for the protection of journalists from sexually harassment is in line with international, continental and regional frameworks.

“Principles on freedom of expression and access to information in Africa which calls on states to take specific measures to ensure the safety of female journalists and media practitioners by addressing gender-specific safety concerns, including sexual and gender based violence, intimidation and harassment,” reads the statement.

The organisation has also appealed to the Zimbabwe Media Commission to promote good practices and ethics in the media.

“Sexual harassment is a criminal offense and because cases are not reported or incidents in the past have involved hearsay with very little evidence, perpetrators  go unpublished.

“We urge the Zimbabwe Media Commission, as the chapter 12 Institution established by the Constitution of Zimbabwe to promote good practices and ethics in the media, sees that the complainant mechanism and process is instituted justly,” reads the statement.