Zimbabwe state broadcaster warns low-paid journalists to stop taking bribes from politicians

Zimbabwe broadcaster warns against media bribes

HARARE, Zimbabwe — Zimbabwe’s state broadcaster says it has warned low-paid journalists to stop taking bribes from politicians or selling information to online news sites.

Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corp. head Happison Muchetetere said the television and radio broadcast station uncovered “enticements” received by staff that led to bias and “falsehoods” being aired or transmitted online, state radio reported Thursday. Muchetetere said offenders would be disciplined.

State broadcast journalists receive up to $400 a month, a third of salaries paid by private media. The alleged bribes are given in cash or financing on housing and cars.

Last month, human rights groups reported that underpaid state nursing staff had been distributing scarce HIV/AIDS medication only to patients who offered bribes.