“I want to be president”

“I want to be president” — Mliswa

Zim Now Reporter

Temba Mliswa has expressed his ambition to become Zimbabwe’s ultimate leader.

“I cannot be a senior teacher forever. I want to lead this country one day,” said Mliswa while addressing media practitioners during a stakeholders' gathering convened by the Voluntary Media Council of Zimbabwe and the Media Alliance of Zimbabwe in Harare on Wednesday.

The former *Norton Member of Parliament, who lost his seat in the 2023 election and is now a Village Head in Shurugwi, did not specify a time frame for when he plans to officially pursue the presidency. In his address, Mliswa urged media practitioners to be ethical and fair, reminding them to be mindful of the lives they can destroy with irresponsible reporting.

He warned that journalists expose themselves to legal suits they may not be able to afford by failing to adhere to the standard principles and ethics of journalism. Speaking at the same event, Information Secretary Nick Mangwana said the government is open to discussions with the media to improve access for everyone.

He noted that progress has been made in legal frameworks, including the introduction of co-regulation.

Parliamentary Portfolio Committee Chair Hon. Caston Matewu stated that there is still room for stakeholders to contribute to legal instruments.

Executive Director at International Media Support, Jesper Højberg, praised Zimbabwe for bringing all stakeholders to the table for constructive discussions. He noted that in the 20 years IMS has been present in Zimbabwe, there has been progress in opening up the media space, though there are still areas that need improvement.