Chin'ono warns against divisive voices

Investigative journalist Hopewell Chin'ono has urged Zimbabweans to reject tribalism and avoid amplifying divisive voices, warning that such behaviour only strengthens those who seek to exploit societal fractures.

In a widely shared message on X (formerly Twitter), Chin'ono called on citizens from all ethnic backgrounds to promote unity and refuse to engage with individuals who incite hatred between communities.

"Let us not amplify the voices of wicked, cruel and bad people in our midst. We know who they are. We know that they create divisions within communities and within ethnic groups," he said.

He cautioned that responding to or sharing inflammatory content on social media only gives it wider reach and legitimacy.

"The moment you amplify, retweet or reshare such content, you are participating in it. You are validating it. And that is something we must all reject," Chin'ono said.

The journalist, who commands a significant following across multiple platforms, said he deliberately avoids engaging with tribal rhetoric to prevent giving it visibility.

"I will never repost them or comment on them… the moment I respond, I give that person access to over a million people. That would be irresponsible," he added.

Chin'ono said Zimbabwe's diversity should be a source of strength rather than division, noting his own experiences living and interacting across different ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

"I am not a tribalist. I am not a racist. I am a decent human being who wants to live in harmony with my compatriots," he said.

He urged Zimbabweans to actively reject and isolate those who promote ethnic hatred.

"Please, let us not amplify such destructive voices in our communities. Block them if you can," he said.

Chin'ono warned that tribalism undermines national unity and weakens communities, making them more vulnerable to manipulation and exploitation.