As we discussed the lead up to her trial, which begins today on charges of undermining the President, my boss, Faith Zaba, spoke to me with astounding composure and confidence.
It was hard to believe this was the journalist who, in a few hours, would stand trial. That calmness and unshakable poise have defined her throughout this ordeal, and taught me lasting lessons.
When, in June, I told her authorities were at the office asking for her, she simply said she would hand herself over. I was stunned.
In the days that followed — the detention, court appearances, and the global eruption of concern and anger — I saw in her a remarkable human being who refuses to be unsettled by circumstance, no matter how difficult.
Under the circumstances, I will not hazard to sound as if trying to influence the outcome of important legal processes, except to say: good luck, madam boss!
As she walks into the courtroom today, she carries with her not only her own hopes, but the collective aspirations of every journalist back in the newsroom, and beyond.
She carries the hopes of those who believe in the importance of press freedom as an important factor for national development.
Her case is no longer about a single journalist or a single newspaper. It has become a defining moment — a test of journalism’s commitment to help build economies, and of Zimbabwe’s commitment to the constitutional ideals it embraced in 2013, which place so much faith and respect in freedom of expression and media independence.
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Over the years, Faith’s work has asked difficult questions, illuminated issues of public interest, and upheld professionalism.
She has never been one to take the easy path, and her integrity has earned her respect both at home and abroad. Today, that same commitment brings her here.
Faith’s trial speaks to something far larger than one individual.
It speaks to the resilience of ideas, the value of free thought, and the need for open dialogue in a society that continues to evolve.
It is a reminder that courage — hers, and ours — remains essential to the practice of journalism, especially in moments that test the boundaries of expression.
The outpouring of support from colleagues and press organisations across the world has been both humbling and powerful.
It reflects a shared belief that journalism, when practised with responsibility and fairness, contributes meaningfully to national development.
Through the years, the Zimbabwe Independent has continued to shine light into all corners of national life.
That mission has defined our existence. The newspaper has endured economic hardship and professional challenges because journalists like Zaba have always believed journalism is a public service — a tool for building our economy.
As Faith faces trial, we are reminded that every generation of journalists encounters its defining test.
For this generation of the Zimbabwe Independent’s newsroom, that test comes in the form of being held to account like this, and the unwavering pursuit of truth through lawful means.
To Faith, I wish you strength, grace, and peace of mind.
Your colleagues, readers, and friends stand with you in solidarity and respect.
