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Zimbabwe govt vows to stamp out cyberbullying
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The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) has issued a stern warning to individuals engaging in cyberbullying, emphasizing that perpetrators risk prosecution under the country's laws.
Cyberbullying, described as the malicious act of sending or posting harmful, intimidating, or humiliating messages on digital platforms, is considered a serious criminal offense in Zimbabwe.
In a statement, POTRAZ highlighted the damaging effects of cyberbullying and urged victims and witnesses to report such incidents.
"Such conduct (cyberbullying) is a violation of personal privacy and a serious criminal offence," the regulator stated. "Under Section 4 of the Criminal Law Codification and Reform Act (Chapter 9:23), anyone convicted of cyberbullying may face a fine or imprisonment for up to 10 years, or both."
POTRAZ underscored the severe emotional and psychological harm caused by cyberbullying.
"This behaviour is intended to coerce, intimidate, harass, threaten, or cause substantial emotional distress to victims," it said. "In extreme cases, it can lead to self-harm or even suicide, highlighting the grave emotional and psychological consequences it imposes."
The regulator urged those engaging in such acts to reflect on the harm they cause and make a conscious effort to stop.
"If you are engaging in any form of cyberbullying, we urge you to stop immediately, reflect on the harm your actions may be causing to others, and choose kindness over hostility. Your words and actions have a lasting impact, and it is never too late to do the right thing," read the statement.
POTRAZ encouraged victims and witnesses to come forward and report cases of cyberbullying so that authorities can address them effectively.
The warning comes amid growing concerns about the misuse of social media and digital platforms to harm others, with POTRAZ taking a firm stance to curb the menace.
Citizens are reminded to use online platforms responsibly and to promote positive interactions while respecting the rights and dignity of others.
Cyberbullying, described as the malicious act of sending or posting harmful, intimidating, or humiliating messages on digital platforms, is considered a serious criminal offense in Zimbabwe.
In a statement, POTRAZ highlighted the damaging effects of cyberbullying and urged victims and witnesses to report such incidents.
"Such conduct (cyberbullying) is a violation of personal privacy and a serious criminal offence," the regulator stated. "Under Section 4 of the Criminal Law Codification and Reform Act (Chapter 9:23), anyone convicted of cyberbullying may face a fine or imprisonment for up to 10 years, or both."
POTRAZ underscored the severe emotional and psychological harm caused by cyberbullying.
The regulator urged those engaging in such acts to reflect on the harm they cause and make a conscious effort to stop.
"If you are engaging in any form of cyberbullying, we urge you to stop immediately, reflect on the harm your actions may be causing to others, and choose kindness over hostility. Your words and actions have a lasting impact, and it is never too late to do the right thing," read the statement.
POTRAZ encouraged victims and witnesses to come forward and report cases of cyberbullying so that authorities can address them effectively.
The warning comes amid growing concerns about the misuse of social media and digital platforms to harm others, with POTRAZ taking a firm stance to curb the menace.
Citizens are reminded to use online platforms responsibly and to promote positive interactions while respecting the rights and dignity of others.
Source - the herald
