A rights organisation has condemned the handling of a kidnapping case involving a minor by journalists in Bulawayo after they interviewed the 14 year-old suspect on camera.
Two year-old Asanda Ndlovu was snatched from her mother at the Meikles Mall in the city centre on Tuesday last week.
The girl was found two days later a city flat, leading to the arrest of the 14 year-old girl.
She was recorded by journalists in the presence of police officers confessing to the alleged crime.
Media4 Gender Justice said the reporting by the journalists breached media ethics.
“We note with deep concern and disappointment the events that unfolded today in Bulawayo, where journalists from mainstream media, freelance practitioners and content creators reportedly interviewed a 14-year-old girl accused of kidnapping a two-year-old child,” the organisation said.
“While the matter itself is serious and of public interest, the manner in which it was handled raises grave ethical questions about the protection of minors and adherence to professional journalism standards.
“The girl, who is a minor, was reportedly questioned extensively on camera at a police station, with journalists asking for her name and surname despite her age.
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“Although her face was partially covered with a mask, revealing her identity through her name undermines efforts to protect her privacy and safety.
“Interviewing a minor without the consent or presence of a parent or legal guardian is a clear breach of established ethical guidelines governing the media profession."
Journalists have a duty to report accurately and responsibly, but they also carry an obligation to safeguard vulnerable individuals, especially children.
“The pursuit of content must never override the fundamental principles of child protection and human dignity,” Media4 Gender Justice added.
“We further urge law enforcement authorities to reflect on their role in this matter.
“Police officers are entrusted with protecting minors in their custody and ensuring that their rights are upheld. Allowing a child to be subjected to media questioning in such circumstances is deeply troubling.”
It urged the Voluntary Media Council of Zimbabwe to urgently look into this incident and engage the media houses involved to reinforce ethical standards, particularly regarding coverage involving children.
“This moment calls for introspection within the journalism profession and renewed commitment to the codes of conduct that guide our work,” the organisation said.
“The credibility of the media depends not only on breaking news but on upholding integrity, fairness and the protection of the most vulnerable in our society.”
