The media has long been recognised as the fourth estate, wielding significant power to shape discourse and set the agenda for progressive dialogue, standing alongside the legislature, the executive, and the judiciary. Its role in a democracy is crucial; it serves as a vigilant watchdog over government actions, ensuring that the public remains informed about policies and issues that impact society.

In Zimbabwe, when a press conference is announced, the nation eagerly turns to their devices, hungry for direct answers to pressing questions about the country’s future. Press briefings by ZANU PF Spokesperson, Cde Christopher Mutsvangwa, have a profound impact on national issues, as he articulates the ruling party’s stance. He should not be expected to attack his rivals with pointed rhetoric, asserting that they will never govern this nation.

The nation rightfully expects journalists to drive the narrative during briefings, posing insightful and progressive questions. However, what we see instead is an overwhelming focus on ZANU PF conflicts—topics that have been thoroughly covered on social media platforms accessible to these very journalists. This over-reliance on technology has led to a frustrating trend where they simply copy and paste information, rather than using their opportunities at press conferences to dig deeper.

As the country grapples with critical issues like the progress of Vision 2030, the factors influencing Cabinet reshuffles, and discussing the legitimacy of presidential term extensions without a referendum, our journalists are stuck on asking irrelevant questions—ones that have been answered repeatedly through other communication channels. It’s time for our journalists to rise to the occasion and engage with the pressing issues that truly matter to our nation.

During every press conference led by Cde Christopher Mutsvangwa, we consistently hear the same questions. How many times have we listened to inquiries about whether President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s leadership within ZANU-PF faces internal challenges, if the opposition poses a real threat, or whether there are ongoing factions? These questions have been asked far too often and ultimately lead to the unwarranted ridicule of individuals like Kudakwashe Tagwirei, even if they are not explicitly named.

It’s time for our journalists to step up. A press conference with Mutsvangwa should focus on addressing the pressing national issues that matter. Instead, he monopolizes the conversation, frequently targeting Tagwirei, Tungwarara, or anyone he labels as Mafikizolo. Why do journalists allow him to ramble endlessly, using the platform to settle personal scores? Journalists need to formulate their questions thoughtfully and ensure that press conferences do not get bogged down in internal party disputes, from which we only hear one side of the story. Enough is enough; we demand more from our media.