Harare journalist Blessed Mhlanga remains in custody after the magistrate deferred ruling on his bail application to February 27.
Mhlanga, a senior reporter, is facing allegations related to data transmission, a charge his lawyer, Chris Mhike, argues is an attack on press freedom.
State Opposes Bail Citing Witness Interference
Magistrate Farai Gwatima presided over the case, while prosecutors Takudzwa Jambawu and Ruvimbo Matyatya opposed bail, arguing that Mhlanga could interfere with witnesses.
The state cited a previous case, Douglas Tapfumanei v The State, to support their claim that proximity to witnesses should be considered in bail applications.
Defense Challenges Police Detention
Mhike criticized the police for detaining Mhlanga despite his voluntary surrender, stating that there was no compelling reason for his detention.
He also condemned the conditions in which his client was held, describing them as substandard and inconsistent with constitutional provisions.
Allegations Against Journalist Questioned
The prosecution further argued that Mhlanga’s seniority as a journalist posed a risk of influencing junior reporters.
However, Mhike dismissed these claims, stating that journalism is not a crime and that his client was being unfairly targeted for his work.
Counter Terrorism Unit’s Involvement Raises Questions
The court heard that the investigating officer handling Mhlanga’s case was from the Counter Terrorism Unit, raising questions about why a journalist was being treated in such a manner.
Mhike pointed out inconsistencies in the allegations, questioning the legal basis for linking Mhlanga to activities on HSTV, a YouTube channel.
Defense Highlights Mhlanga’s Clean Record
The defense emphasized Mhlanga’s clean record, stable family life, and contributions to Zimbabwean journalism as reasons for granting bail.
Mhike argued that the case was part of a broader effort to suppress press freedom and that the justice system should uphold constitutional rights.
Judgment Reserved Until February 27
Magistrate Gwatima reserved judgment, stating that more time was needed to review the submissions before making a final ruling on Mhlanga’s bail status.
