Fleeing Tyranny: A Journalist’s Desperate Escape from Corruption and Fear

Progress Ziwakaya’s voice trembled as he recounted the traumatic events that forced him to flee his homeland, Zimbabwe. A former freelance journalist, Ziwakaya had exposed the dark underbelly of corruption at Marange diamonds between 2007 and 2009. His courageous reporting had come at a steep price.

“I started receiving threatening messages from unknown numbers,” Ziwakaya recalled. “People would follow me, and I’d notice unregistered vehicles parked outside my home. My family was constantly interrogated, and I knew I was being watched.”

The threats escalated, and Ziwakaya’s life was under siege. He became paranoid, always looking over his shoulder, waiting for the other shoe to drop. The once fearless journalist was now consumed by fear.

In 2009, Ziwakaya made the difficult decision to leave Zimbabwe, seeking refuge in South Africa with his family, his friend helped him secure a job on a ship vessel, and Ziwakaya saw this as an opportunity to escape the danger that lurked in every corner.

However, even in his new surroundings, Ziwakaya couldn’t shake off the feeling of being watched. He’d receive mysterious calls from Zimbabwe, and his heart would sink.

The worst call came with the passing away of his son who was mysteriously attacked, sources close to the incident confirmed that the untimely death was targeted to Ziwakaya who became more devastated and unable to pay his respects and flee to Canada.

“I was stranded, scared, and helpless,” he said, his voice cracking with emotion. “I couldn’t even give my son a proper burial. It’s a pain that I’ll carry with me forever.”

Years have passed since Ziwakaya fled Zimbabwe, but the trauma still lingers. He rarely visits his family, fearing for his safety. The pain of being separated from his loved ones is a constant reminder of the price he paid for speaking truth to power.

Ziwakaya’s story is a testament to the bravery of journalists who risk everything to expose corruption and bring about justice. Though his journey has been marked by pain and loss, Ziwakaya’s spirit remains unbroken. He continues to advocate for press freedom and human rights, inspiring others to stand up against injustice.