In practical terms, freedom of expression and press freedom in Mozambique can be seen in the pluralism and diversity of the media environment in the country. here are at least nine private newspapers, one of which is a daily. he remainder are weeklies. here are also three private television stations as well as various commercial radio stations. In addition to conventional newspapers, there are an indeterminate number of electronic newspapers transmitted by e-mail or fax, ranging from four to six pages a day. here is also a growing community radio sector that enables citizens to freely share information of public interest without any legal restrictions. It is important to note, however, that despite this encouraging picture, there are gaps in the law arising from the fact that, while the Constitution ofers certain guarantees, the actual exercise of these guarantees is supposed to be deined with additional legislation that has in many cases, never been approved. For example, Article 49(1) of the Constitution states that “Political parties have the right to air time on public radio and television, according to their proportion of (parliamentary) representation...” However, it stresses that enjoyment of this right is subject to “criteria established by law”. As the law does not exist, this constitutional guarantee is not exercised by political parties. Another example is Article 48 of the Constitution on freedom of expression and information. It lists a series of rights that include guarantees for freedom of expression and for arguments involving diferent opinions in the public media. However, paragraph 6 of this article states that the exercise of such rights and freedoms is regulated by law, which also does not exist. An exception to this rule is the guarantee provided by paragraph 4 of Article 49, which states that, “During election periods, candidates have the right to regular and equitable party political broadcasts on public radio and television, national or local ...” his provision is guaranteed in the Electoral Law. Despite these gaps in the legislation, there is an atmosphere of relative freedom of expression and press freedom in Mozambique, including in the public media. Both Rádio Moçambique and Televisão de Moçambique have regular live interactive programmes that include public participation through telephone calls or SMSs. Although the legal framework in Mozambique is generally conducive to freedom of expression, it was noted that this is constrained due to apprehension and fear among both citizens and journalists. his behaviour usually relects individual anxiety, perhaps caused by insecurity or ignorance of their rights in an environment characterised by a culture of institutional secrecy. In May 2010, there was a debate in the Assembly of the Republic (Parliament) on whether or not there were 72 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER MOZAMBIQUE 2011