Legislative Constraints and Journalistic Agency: Navigating the Legal Framework for Reporting on Corruption in Zimbabwe

This study investigates how regulatory frameworks and statutory provisions shape investigative reporting on corruption in Zimbabwe’s media. Drawing on qualitative research, it explores the interplay between law, institutional dynamics and journalistic autonomy. Despite legislative reforms, the findings show that enduring legal ambiguities and state interference undermine freedom of expression, access to information and journalistic autonomy. The study argues that safeguarding anti-corruption journalism requires the repeal of restrictive laws, political commitment to uphold press freedom, strengthening the Zimbabwe Media Commission and integration of legal support units within newsrooms to enhance institutional capacity.