Chiefs call for empathy in media reportage
Story by Sifiso Sibanda
Traditional leaders have implored the media to exercise empathy in their reportage on the Gukurahundi Community Engagement Programme, given the sensitivity of the consultation process.
The main thrust of the programme is to heal wounds and promote inclusive development.
Addressing members of the Fourth Estate drawn from various media houses in Bulawayo this Friday, chiefs noted the need for responsible reportage to ensure objectives of the process are achieved.
“We are one nation and we know that the Zimbabwean people have trust in you as the media, so we appeal to you to be responsible in your approach to this issue and bear in mind that this is about healing the nation. So you have to write in a manner that does not evoke emotions, but heals the wounds so that there is peace and healing,” said Chief Staudze.
“We plead for positive writing which does not provoke emotions but brings closure to this issue. You have to demonstrate that we are Zimbabweans who understand the national focus on this and that peace can only come about if you as media works with us to archive that,” Chief Siansali said.
Government anticipates the engagement process to bring closure to the country’s dark chapter of Gukurahundi.
