Minister Tatenda Mavetera Withdraws Controversial WhatsApp Group Administrator Penalties Directive
By A Correspondent | ZimEye | Zimbabwe’s ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera has distanced herself from the controversial directive that proposed licensing and penalties for WhatsApp group administrators. The directive, which suggested penalties ranging between USD 50 to USD 2500 for group administrators failing to comply with data protection regulations, sparked widespread public outrage and was heavily criticized for infringing on free expression and privacy rights.
The backlash intensified following public criticism and an exposé by ZimEye, which highlighted inconsistencies in the directive and questioned its enforceability. In her revised statement, Minister Mavetera claimed the initial directive was a “misunderstanding” and sought to clarify the government’s position.
Minister Mavetera’s Statement
“False claim of USD 2500 penalties for WhatsApp Group Administrators.
I would like [to] distance myself from the malicious fake news of intentions by [the] government to licence or penalise WhatsApp Groups or Administrators of any social media platform/s [with] USD 2500.
This claim is not applicable especially to players who do not collect and process Personally Identifiable Information (PII) for commercial or business use.
Personally identifiable information (PII) is any type of data that can be used to identify someone, from their name, address to their phone number, passport information, and ID number.
The public is encouraged to disregard this notice with the utmost discontent it deserves as it is inconsistent with our legal provisions as espoused.”
Public Reaction and Criticism
Despite the retraction, critics continue to question the minister’s actions, with some accusing her of backtracking under pressure. The initial announcement led to a flurry of questions, including:
1. Responsibility During the Crisis:
“As a cabinet minister, how many km did you move non-stop for several days, and were you the one driving the car/boat that you couldn’t use your cellphone as the country went on fire under your own threat to criminalize WhatsApp Group Admins without a USD50–USD2500 license?”
2. Accountability for the Announcement:
“Have you now deleted your announcement?”
“Have you notified the police and POTRAZ to delete your announcement?”
3. Clarity for the Public:
“Have you notified the public to disregard your USD50–USD2500 announcement?”
“Have you asked your secretary to edit the obscured English in this your Saturday new announcement so that the country can understand?”
Implications of the Directive
The proposed penalties, as initially presented, raised concerns about:
• Free Speech: Critics argued that holding group administrators accountable for the actions of their members could stifle open communication and discourage the use of social platforms.
• Impractical Enforcement: Questions were raised about how authorities would monitor and enforce such penalties without violating privacy rights.
• Targeting Ordinary Citizens: Many felt the directive unfairly singled out ordinary users, many of whom rely on WhatsApp groups for business, social, and community activities.
Moving Forward
The Ministry of ICT has yet to outline a clear path for addressing data protection concerns in a way that respects citizens’ rights to privacy and free expression. Meanwhile, activists and civil society groups are urging the government to engage in consultations before implementing any regulations affecting digital platforms.
This episode highlights the growing tension between governments seeking to regulate digital spaces and the public’s demand for privacy and freedom of expression. Whether this will serve as a lesson for more inclusive policymaking remains to be seen.