Zimbabwe officials arrested journalist Blessed Mhlanga in February for allegedly breaking the Cyber and Data Protection Act. Many people argue online about what actions actually break this law. The act aims to protect privacy rights by controlling personal data. It combines several laws covering telecommunications, secrecy, criminal law, and communications monitoring. Potraz, the telecommunications authority, manages this law, which officially started in March 2022.
The government created this act to safeguard data rights under the Constitution. It promotes proper technology use and prevents unauthorized data collection. Mhlanga got into trouble after broadcasting press conferences where politician Blessed Geza called for President Mnangagwa to resign. Authorities say this violated Section 164, which bans using digital platforms to encourage violence or property damage.
The law forbids sending threatening messages or bullying others online. It also bans sharing false information meant to harm people. Sending private pictures without permission breaks the rules. Racist material, child porn, spam messages remain illegal under this act. Deputy Chief Secretary George Charamba recently warned citizens that sharing disruptive messages will lead to punishment, saying officials watch social media closely.
The government created this act to safeguard data rights under the Constitution. It promotes proper technology use and prevents unauthorized data collection. Mhlanga got into trouble after broadcasting press conferences where politician Blessed Geza called for President Mnangagwa to resign. Authorities say this violated Section 164, which bans using digital platforms to encourage violence or property damage.
The law forbids sending threatening messages or bullying others online. It also bans sharing false information meant to harm people. Sending private pictures without permission breaks the rules. Racist material, child porn, spam messages remain illegal under this act. Deputy Chief Secretary George Charamba recently warned citizens that sharing disruptive messages will lead to punishment, saying officials watch social media closely.
