Alpha Media Holdings (AMH) has launched an independent investigation into its own newsroom following the publication of a controversial story claiming US$52 million in Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) licence fees was unaccounted for.
The article, published by the Zimbabwe Independent under the headline “US$52m licensing fee storm rocks ZBC”, alleged that former Information Minister Jenfan Muswere had raised concerns over possible abuse of funds before being reassigned.
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However, within hours of publication, AMH issued apology letters to President Emmerson Mnangagwa and ZBC chairperson Helliate Rushwaya, admitting the story was incorrect. A formal retraction followed in the NewsDay Weekender edition of February 22.
In a statement, AMH Editorial Advisory Board of Trustees chairperson Muchadeyi Masunda said the board will appoint an independent three-member panel made up of respected experts in law, accountancy and media to investigate how the story was produced and handled. Masunda said:
“The board is now seized with an enquiry to establish the circumstances that led to the publication of the particular story and the events that followed to avoid the recurrence of such incidents.”
He added that the issue of radio licensing funds remains a matter of public interest, but stressed the group’s commitment to truth, accuracy and ethical journalism.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services dismissed the US$52 million claim as “a gross exaggeration and complete fabrication.” The Ministry said no government audit had uncovered any irregularities and that ZBC’s internal auditors had not flagged malpractice.
Government also rejected suggestions that the President reshuffled ministers as punishment for raising governance concerns, describing the narrative as a deliberate distortion.
ZBC is scheduled to undergo its routine audit next month, with findings expected to be tabled before Parliament.
AMH, publishers of The Standard, Zimbabwe Independent, NewsDay and Southern Eye, says it will strengthen its editorial verification processes going forward.
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