A High Court judge in Zimbabwe has adjourned the case of journalist Blessed Mhlanga, who was arrested on February 24 for allegedly inciting violence through his interviews with war veteran-turned-politician Blessed Geza.
Mhlanga’s lawyer, Chris Mhike, expressed concerns that the arrest sends a chilling message to journalists, restricting their ability to report on political topics.
Mhlanga, who works with NewsDay and Heart and Soul Television, faces two charges related to transmitting data messages that incite violence or damage to property.
He denies the charges, and his lawyer argues that the arrest may be unconstitutional, as Zimbabwe’s Constitution guarantees freedom of expression and press freedom.
The case has drawn international attention, with media rights organizations condemning Mhlanga’s arrest and urging the Zimbabwean government to drop the charges.
The media watchdog Reporters Without Borders notes that while conditions for journalists have improved since the end of Robert Mugabe’s rule, media have faced greater persecution since the 2023 election.
Mhlanga’s arrest is not an isolated incident; he was previously arrested in 2022 for taking photos of the police during the arrest of an opposition lawmaker.
The Zimbabwean government maintains that the arrest is not a reflection of the state of press freedom in the country.
