×
App Icon
The Standard e-Paper
Home To Bold Columnists
★★★★ - on Play Store
Download Now

Zimbabwe adopts 'draconian' law banning government criticism

Vocalize Pre-Player Loader

Audio By Vocalize

Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa delivers his State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the parliament building in Harare, Zimbabwe, November 23, 2022. [Reuters]

Zimbabwe's parliament approved a controversial law that ostensibly promotes patriotism but has been denounced by the opposition as a "draconian" attempt to stifle dissent ahead of national elections.

The bill, passed by the lower house on Wednesday evening, criminalizes acts that damage "the sovereignty and national interest" of the southern African country.

Premium Article

Get Full Access for Ksh299/Week.

Uncover the stories others won't tell. Subscribe now for exclusive access.
Continue Reading  →
What you get
  • Unlimited access to all premium content
  • Ad-free browsing experience
  • Mobile-optimised reading
  • Weekly newsletters & digests
Pay via
M - PESA
VISA
Airtel Money
Secure Payments Kenya's most trusted newsroom since 1902
By AFP 4 hrs ago
Sports
Ronaldo, 41, leads Portugal into his sixth World Cup
Sports
Kenya's Afcon dream is under threat as FKF officials fight
Sports
Kenyans now shift focus to Commonwealth Games after shining at Africa meet in Accra
Sports
New motorsports body up and running with autocross action at Stoni Athi