Journalist conviction in Zimbabwe a ‘travesty of justice’, say campaigners

Media freedom groups say New York Times reporter's verdict reflects press clampdown as election looms

Media freedom campaigners have criticised the conviction of a journalist in Zimbabwe for allegedly breaking immigration laws, describing the decision as a monumental travesty of justice" that raises concerns for the press in the lead-up to elections next year.

Jeffrey Moyo, a freelance correspondent for the New York Times, was given a suspended prison sentence of five years and fined $615 by a court in Bulawayo after being found guilty on Tuesday of helping to obtain press accreditation needed by two reporters from his news organisation to enter Zimbabwe.