Blessed Mhlanga, a journalist from Alpha Media Holdings (AMH), will remain in custody for two additional nights after the court postponed his bail ruling to Thursday.
Mhlanga was taken into custody on Monday after he voluntarily reported to the Harare Central Police Station alongside his lawyer, Chris Mhike.
He faces charges under Section 164 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act Chapter 9:23, related to accusations of transmitting information that incites violence or damages property.
The charges stem from an interview he conducted with Blessed Geza, a war veteran and vocal critic of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s 2030 agenda.
Geza has been publicly calling for the president’s resignation through press briefings aired on AMH’s broadcaster, HSTv.
The state, represented by Ruvimbo Matyatya, opposed Mhlanga’s bail, arguing that he might interfere with witnesses, including his junior colleagues.
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Mhlanga has alleged mistreatment by police during his detention.
His lawyer, Chris Mhike, urged the court to grant bail, asserting that journalism should not be criminalised.
He stated, “If journalism is viewed as a threat, we have a serious issue that needs addressing within our justice system and among those in power.”
Mhike emphasised that Zimbabwe is defined as a democratic republic under Section 1 of its Constitution, and his client is eager for a chance to prove his innocence.
He noted that despite warnings from the investigating officer about potential issues for HSTv, Mhlanga is prepared to clear his name in court.
