The High Court of Zimbabwe has instructed the Sheriff to attach all properties belonging to Al Jazeera Media Network in the country as security for costs, as reported by NewsDay.
This decision stems from a lawsuit filed by Mehluli Dube, who is seeking US$2 million in damages, alleging that the documentary series “Gold Mafia” has harmed his reputation.
Dube asserts that he left his previous job with a commendable record and strong relationships, claiming that Al Jazeera’s portrayal has damaged his standing.
The “Gold Mafia” series, released by Al Jazeera, purportedly reveals gold smuggling operations involving high-profile individuals in Zimbabwe. In the second episode, titled “Smoke and Mirrors,” Dube is accused of unlawfully approving licenses for gold smuggling, allegedly receiving US$3,000 monthly for his involvement.
The series has garnered over 12 million views across various platforms.
Dube contends that the documentary has significantly impacted his reputation among peers, family, and the public. He mentioned that on May 15, his legal team reached out to Al Jazeera for evidence backing the allegations against him, but received no reply. This prompted his lawyers to send a formal demand letter via email on May 24, 2023. Although Al Jazeera eventually responded, they claimed ignorance of the initial request.
Attempts to resolve the issue amicably failed, leading to the current legal proceedings. Dube also noted that Al Jazeera operates a bureau at Rainbow Towers in Harare, containing valuable equipment he estimates at US$100,000.
In an affidavit, Philip Rees, Al Jazeera’s Director of Investigative Journalism, confirmed the network sublets a room at Rainbow Towers for editorial purposes. He maintained that the equipment belongs to the employees and is utilized for both local and international assignments.
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Justice Musithu, reviewing the case, concluded that the allegedly defamatory statements made by Al Jazeera—asserted by the network to be true—present a prima facie cause for action. The judge indicated that should these statements be proven false, the court would need to examine Al Jazeera’s defenses.
He emphasized the need for both parties to present their arguments in court to assess their rights and the validity of the allegations against Dube. Justice Musithu highlighted the necessity of balancing the constitutional rights of both sides, including freedom of expression and media rights, without causing undue harm to an individual’s reputation.
He ruled that it is in the public interest to assess the truthfulness of the allegations presented in the documentary, which has attracted significant public attention. The court determined that the attachment order would only pertain to the equipment located at Al Jazeera’s bureau office, excluding any personal equipment of employees.
Justice Musithu authorized the Sheriff to seize Al Jazeera’s laptops, computers, printers, cameras, and photographic gear from its bureau at Rainbow Towers Hotel in Harare.
