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March 21, 2025 – Source: Barrons –
Zimbabwean journalist Blessed Mhlanga was denied bail after his arrest on February 24, 2025, in connection with interviews he conducted with war veteran and former Zanu-PF member Blessed Geza. The interviews, which aired on Heart and Soul Television (HStv) in late 2024 and early 2025, featured Geza openly calling for the resignation of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Mhlanga was charged under Zimbabwe’s Cyber and Data Protection Act, accused of transmitting data messages that could incite violence or damage property. The law carries penalties of up to five years in prison and fines reaching $700.
Prosecutors argued against bail because releasing Mhlanga might provoke unrest and threaten national peace and security. This stance has been widely criticized by local and international press freedom advocates who argue the charges represent a clear attempt to silence dissent and intimidate independent journalists. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) condemned the arrest as a violation of free expression, urging authorities to release Mhlanga immediately and unconditionally. The CPJ emphasized that journalists must be able to interview political figures and report on matters of public interest without fear of prosecution.
Mhlanga’s case highlights the increasingly hostile environment for journalists in Zimbabwe. In recent years, the government has tightened control over media outlets and used legislation to curb criticism. Independent voices face harassment, arrests, and legal challenges that undermine the country’s democratic norms. Observers note that the Cyber and Data Protection Act, in particular, is being weaponized against journalists and activists who challenge the ruling party or expose corruption and abuses of power.
The arrest of Blessed Mhlanga sends a chilling message to media professionals across Zimbabwe and the broader region, signaling that reporting on politically sensitive topics can come at great personal risk. The case remains pending as Mhlanga awaits further legal proceedings while continuing to endure detention. Press freedom organizations are closely monitoring the situation, advocating for reforms to protect journalists and safeguard the public’s right to information.
Reference –
https://www.barrons.com/news/zimbabwe-court-keeps-journalist-in-jail-for-critical-interview-b88ec071
