Three journalists have been arrested and charged under Zimbabwe's new security law over a protest against proposed press restrictions. The tough new Public Order and Security Act means that police have broad powers to break up protests and political meetings, while criticism of President Robert Mugabe is outlawed.
Foster Dongozi, Cornelius Nduna and Rhoda Mashavave from Zimbabwe's privately owned Daily News were charged with holding an illegal gathering likely to breach the peace. The three were among 40 journalists who had marched to Zimbabwe's parliament, where a restrictive new media bill is set to be discussed.
Foreign journalists would be banned from working permanently in the country if the bill was passed. The information minister would be given sweeping powers to decide which journalists or media groups can operate in the country.
The opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), which poses a serious challenge to Mr Mugabe in the 9-10 March presidential election, accused him of pushing the new laws through to ensure his re-election.
