Watson Flexy Munyaka, a Zimbabwean investigative journalist, was brutally murdered on March 17, 2025. His death underscores the dangers journalists face when reporting on corruption. Reporters Without Borders calls for a thorough investigation, while Munyaka’s work and recent investigations into high-profile scandals highlight the critical nature of his contributions to journalism in Zimbabwe. The incident reflects a broader crackdown on independent media in the country.
The tragic murder of journalist Watson Flexy Munyaka on March 17, 2025, illustrates the escalating dangers faced by those reporting on corruption in Zimbabwe. His death, resulting from being thrown from a moving vehicle, has drawn condemnation from Reporters Without Borders (RSF), who demand thorough investigations and accountability for this crime.
Munyaka’s body was discovered in a central area of Marondera, located southeast of Harare. The attack occurred in broad daylight, and despite immediate medical attention, he was pronounced dead. As one of the founders of Dug Up, a collective dedicated to investigative journalism in Zimbabwe, Munyaka played a critical role in exposing corruption.
Days prior to his death, Dug Up had published a report related to tensions within the ruling party, ZANU-PF. Maynard Manyowa, a senior producer for Dug Up, stated, “Watson was our man on the ground. He was the one who allowed us to conduct in-depth investigations in Zimbabwe.” The immediate aftermath saw the police launching an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
Sadibou Marong, Director of RSF Sub-Saharan Africa, emphasized the significance of Munyaka’s work, stating, “Fighting corruption, drug trafficking, poaching, etc. His heinous murder… must not go unpunished.” Previously, Munyaka had worked for Khuluma Afrika, where he exposed major issues like ivory poaching, and had contributed to Power 987 FM by analyzing news events.
Munyaka’s recent investigations involved high-profile figures under scrutiny for serious allegations, set to be published on Dug Up’s YouTube channel. This brazen act of violence adds to a worrying trend as Zimbabwe sees increasing crackdowns on dissent. Journalist Blessed Mhlanga has also faced detention for his critical coverage of political events, reflecting the challenges for independent media in the nation.
In the latest RSF World Press Freedom Index, Zimbabwe ranks a troubling 116th among 180 countries, indicating significant threats to journalistic freedom and safety.
The murder of Watson Flexy Munyaka highlights the perilous environment for journalists in Zimbabwe, particularly those confronting corruption and government authority. His death calls for urgent action from authorities to ensure justice and signals a concerning trend of violence against the media. The growing repression of dissent, exemplified by the detention of other journalists, underscores the need for protective measures for journalists advocating for truth and accountability.
Original Source: ifex.org
