Media must take active role in curbing corruption

EDITOR — I agree with Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra)’s call to the media to expose corruption at all levels and all forms of illicit behaviour, as these vices reverse the gains of economic development.

The media, in all its various forms, must play a crucial role in giving the public a voice to counter corruption and informing people about the complaints mechanisms available and how they can use these effectively.

They should also actively engage in exposing corruption and fraudulent practices in government, the private sector and even among civil society organisations.

The media’s role is not only to inform the public about facts and statements, but it must be active in public education and supporting the fight against corruption. They can support the anti-corruption agenda by reporting on corrupt behaviour by public officials, putting corruption on the public agenda, and covering corruption from various perspectives.

Through investigative journalism, irregularities both within the government and the private sector can be uncovered.

The media have a role to warn and educate the public as frequently as possible, about the harm of corruption and how it undermines the moral standards of society, endangers democracy, deprives citizens of their rights and blocks development.

Media houses must also consider how they can help foster a climate of public opinion which regards the corrupt, however rich and powerful they may be, with the contempt they deserve. To do this, the media itself must guard against accepting bribes and inappropriate hospitality. Admire Kadirire