2 ex-Herald editors shortlisted as Zimbabwe Media Commissioners

Two former editors of The Herald, Caesar Zvayi and Tichaona Zindoga, have been named on a shortlist of 49 candidates under consideration for appointments as commissioners of the Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC).

The list, which was recently released, features a range of notable names from across the media, civil society, and governance sectors, reflecting a broad pool of potential candidates for the commission. Among those included are Munyaradzi Hwengwere, Susan Makore, Mavis Gumbo, Obert Gutu, Miriam Makome, Tapiwa Mashakada, and Washaya Moyo.
The candidates are due for a 15-minute interview, which has raised eyebrows.
The Zimbabwe Media Commission is responsible for regulating and overseeing media operations in the country, ensuring compliance with the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (AIPPA) and other media-related legislation. The selection of commissioners is a crucial step in strengthening media governance and promoting accountability in the sector.

The shortlist will now undergo further vetting, with the final appointments expected to be announced in the coming weeks. The inclusion of former Herald editors Zvayi and Zindoga has sparked interest among media stakeholders, given their extensive experience in journalism and media management.

Observers note that the composition of the commission will have significant implications for press freedom and media regulation in Zimbabwe, particularly at a time when the country continues to navigate challenges related to media independence and access to information.