The Zimbabwean Ministry of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services is actively working on introducing new legislation to enhance the regulation of social media platforms across the nation. This initiative was announced by Minister Jenfan Muswere during a press briefing on Wednesday evening, where he highlighted the existing gaps in governance related to social media usage in Africa.

Minister Muswere outlined the ministry's plans to address these challenges by proposing amendments to current policies and laws through Parliament, as well as drafting new regulations specifically targeting social media platforms. His comments underscore a growing concern about the unregulated influence of social media on public discourse and national identity.

A central aspect of Muswere’s proposal is the crackdown on "ghost accounts" profiles that are either fake or inactive, which contribute little to meaningful online engagement but artificially inflate follower counts and distort perceptions of user activity. He pointed out that such accounts often mislead users and are sometimes created with the intent to tarnish the country’s reputation through the spread of false narratives.

Notably, Muswere’s reference to "ghost accounts" appears to focus on anonymous profiles where users hide their identities. While anonymity can be exploited for harmful purposes, it also serves as a vital tool for individuals seeking to protect themselves from potential backlash, particularly in contexts where expressing dissent may lead to persecution. The legality of anonymous accounts on most social media platforms complicates the issue, raising questions about the scope and limits of regulatory measures.

While the ministry’s efforts to tackle misinformation and disinformation are commendable, the proposed measures carry significant implications for freedom of speech. The possibility of arrests or penalties for managing such accounts has sparked concerns about the potential erosion of free expression. Section 61 of Zimbabwe’s 2013 Constitution guarantees the right to free speech, protecting not only the freedom to express oneself but also the rights to seek, receive, and share ideas across various fields, including academia, art, and science.

As Zimbabwe advances with this legislative proposal, the courts are expected to play a critical role in interpreting these laws in light of constitutional protections. Given the ruling party’s strong majority in the National Assembly, the passage of these measures seems probable. However, the ensuing legal disputes could set important precedents regarding the balance between regulatory oversight and the preservation of individual freedoms.

Can Social Media Platforms Work with Governments?

Social media platforms often collaborate with governments, but this cooperation is conditional and governed by strict policies. Platforms like Facebook (Meta), Twitter (X), and Instagram typically comply with government requests for user data or content removal if the requests are legally valid and align with their guidelines. They may also partner with governments on issues like election integrity or public health, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic, to combat disinformation. However, platforms prioritize user privacy and free expression, often requiring court orders or subpoenas to release user information and resisting requests perceived as overreaching or politically motivated.

In Zimbabwe’s context, collaboration with social media platforms faces unique challenges. The government’s efforts to regulate ghost accounts and combat disinformation may be hindered by constitutional protections for free speech, technical limitations, and potential resistance from platforms wary of suppressing dissent. For effective cooperation, Zimbabwe must craft clear, constitutional laws and build trust with both platforms and the public. Overreach could lead to legal challenges and international criticism, making it crucial to balance regulation with the protection of individual rights.

While the Zimbabwean government’s goal of targeting ghost accounts is theoretically achievable, it faces significant challenges in terms of technical capacity, legal constraints, and public trust. Success will require collaboration with social media platforms, clear and constitutional legislation, investment in cybersecurity infrastructure, and a balanced approach that avoids infringing on freedom of expression. If implemented carefully, the initiative could reduce the spread of disinformation and protect national interests, but it must navigate these complexities to achieve its goals.