S
strawberryanise
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What's up with Blessed Mhlanga being remanded in custody?
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DireStraits
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Blessed Mhlanga, a senior journalist with Alpha Media Holdings, has been remanded in custody pending a ruling on his bail application. This decision follows his arrest on charges related to the transmission of data messages that allegedly incited violence. Mhlanga's detention is linked to his interviews with Blessed Geza, a ZANU PF central committee member and war veteran, who has been vocal in his criticism of President Emmerson Mnangagwa's leadership.
Mhlanga's role as a political reporter for Heart and Soul TV has placed him in the spotlight, particularly given his recent coverage of Geza's statements. Geza has accused Mnangagwa of corruption, nepotism, and poor leadership, calling for his resignation. These statements have been broadcast through various media platforms, including YouTube, and have sparked significant public interest and debate.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) opposed Mhlanga's bail application, arguing that he might interfere with ongoing investigations. Prosecutors also suggested that Mhlanga, as a senior figure at HStv, could potentially intimidate witnesses, many of whom are his subordinates. This argument highlights concerns about Mhlanga's influence and potential to disrupt the legal process.
Nelson Chamisa, a prominent political figure, has also condemned Mhlanga's arrest, describing it as a flagrant violation of fundamental freedoms and human rights. Chamisa emphasizes the importance of a free press in a democratic society, highlighting that Section 61 of Zimbabwe's Constitution guarantees freedom of the media.
Geza's situation is precarious, and the police have launched a search for him. Authorities recently questioned his wife, further escalating tensions. The government's response to Geza's criticisms has been seen as an attempt to silence dissent within the ruling party and beyond.
His extensive experience and reputation as a principled journalist have earned him respect within the media community. Alpha Media Holdings Chairman Trevor Ncube has strongly condemned Mhlanga's arrest, describing him as a courageous journalist who will not be intimidated.
Socially, Mhlanga's detention has sparked a heated debate about the balance between national security and freedom of expression. Critics argue that laws like Section 164 of the Criminal Law Act can be used to suppress dissent, undermining democratic principles. Supporters of the law argue that it is necessary to protect national interests and maintain order.
International organizations and media watchdogs are closely monitoring the situation, highlighting the importance of press freedom in maintaining a healthy democracy. The case has drawn attention to the challenges faced by journalists in Zimbabwe and the need for robust legal protections to safeguard their rights.
The legal framework in Zimbabwe, particularly laws like Section 164, can be used to intimidate journalists and limit their ability to report freely. This environment creates a culture of fear, where journalists may self-censor to avoid legal repercussions.
Mhlanga's lawyer, Chris Mhike, has argued that there is no justification for his client's continued detention, emphasizing that journalism is not a crime. The court's ruling will be crucial in determining whether Mhlanga will be granted bail and allowed to continue his work as a journalist.
Mhlanga's role as a political reporter for Heart and Soul TV has placed him in the spotlight, particularly given his recent coverage of Geza's statements. Geza has accused Mnangagwa of corruption, nepotism, and poor leadership, calling for his resignation. These statements have been broadcast through various media platforms, including YouTube, and have sparked significant public interest and debate.
The Legal Context
Mhlanga faces charges under Section 164 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, which pertains to distributing material deemed harmful to the state. The prosecution argues that Mhlanga's actions could incite public violence, citing specific statements made by Geza during the interviews. These statements include calls for Mnangagwa to step down peacefully, with Geza suggesting that if Mnangagwa refuses, the public should take action.The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) opposed Mhlanga's bail application, arguing that he might interfere with ongoing investigations. Prosecutors also suggested that Mhlanga, as a senior figure at HStv, could potentially intimidate witnesses, many of whom are his subordinates. This argument highlights concerns about Mhlanga's influence and potential to disrupt the legal process.
Press Freedom and Human Rights Concerns
Mhlanga's detention has sparked widespread concern about press freedom and human rights in Zimbabwe. Critics argue that his arrest is a clear attempt to suppress dissenting voices and silence journalists who report on sensitive political issues. The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights and other organizations have condemned the arrest, emphasizing that journalism is not a crime and that Mhlanga was simply doing his job.Nelson Chamisa, a prominent political figure, has also condemned Mhlanga's arrest, describing it as a flagrant violation of fundamental freedoms and human rights. Chamisa emphasizes the importance of a free press in a democratic society, highlighting that Section 61 of Zimbabwe's Constitution guarantees freedom of the media.
The Role of Blessed Geza
Blessed Geza's statements have been central to the charges against Mhlanga. Geza, who is currently in hiding, has been a vocal critic of Mnangagwa's administration, accusing him of corruption and poor governance. His calls for Mnangagwa's resignation have resonated with some segments of the public, but they have also drawn significant backlash from the government.Geza's situation is precarious, and the police have launched a search for him. Authorities recently questioned his wife, further escalating tensions. The government's response to Geza's criticisms has been seen as an attempt to silence dissent within the ruling party and beyond.
Mhlanga's Professional Background
Blessed Mhlanga is a seasoned journalist with over 17 years of experience. He has worked as a senior political reporter for Zimbabwe's largest independent daily newspaper and hosts a talk show on Heart and Soul TV. Mhlanga has received recognition for his investigative journalism, winning the Zimbabwe-EU Investigative Journalist of the Year award.His extensive experience and reputation as a principled journalist have earned him respect within the media community. Alpha Media Holdings Chairman Trevor Ncube has strongly condemned Mhlanga's arrest, describing him as a courageous journalist who will not be intimidated.
Legal and Social Implications
The legal implications of Mhlanga's case are significant. If found guilty, he could face up to five years in prison and a substantial fine under the 2021 Cyber and Data Protection Act. This outcome would set a concerning precedent for journalists in Zimbabwe, potentially chilling free speech and press freedom.Socially, Mhlanga's detention has sparked a heated debate about the balance between national security and freedom of expression. Critics argue that laws like Section 164 of the Criminal Law Act can be used to suppress dissent, undermining democratic principles. Supporters of the law argue that it is necessary to protect national interests and maintain order.
International Reaction
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has called for Mhlanga's unconditional release. It condemns his arrest as a shameful act that punishes him for doing his job. The CPJ emphasizes that Zimbabwean authorities should address citizens' concerns rather than silencing journalists.International organizations and media watchdogs are closely monitoring the situation, highlighting the importance of press freedom in maintaining a healthy democracy. The case has drawn attention to the challenges faced by journalists in Zimbabwe and the need for robust legal protections to safeguard their rights.
Press Freedom Under Threat
Mhlanga's arrest and detention underscore the challenges faced by journalists in Zimbabwe. The country has a history of press restrictions, and recent events suggest that these challenges persist. Many fear that Mhlanga's case marks a return to darker days when press freedom was severely curtailed.The legal framework in Zimbabwe, particularly laws like Section 164, can be used to intimidate journalists and limit their ability to report freely. This environment creates a culture of fear, where journalists may self-censor to avoid legal repercussions.
The Path Forward
As Mhlanga awaits the outcome of his bail application, the international community and local stakeholders are watching closely. The decision will have significant implications for press freedom in Zimbabwe and could set a precedent for how journalists are treated in similar cases.Mhlanga's lawyer, Chris Mhike, has argued that there is no justification for his client's continued detention, emphasizing that journalism is not a crime. The court's ruling will be crucial in determining whether Mhlanga will be granted bail and allowed to continue his work as a journalist.
E
Electric Tongue
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We all know kuti bail is not going to be granted until 2027.
If the lawyers are confident that Dhara B. Mhlanga is innocent, why not just push for an early trial date? The matter goes to trial, but the state fails to prove its case Dhara goes back home by June 2025.
If you take the bail route, mark my words: bail will be granted in December 2026.
The state is right to deny bail. If you are entirely innocent, you wouldn't be afraid to stand trial, so instead of making noise about bail, advocate for a speedy trial. The main reason is that we want this done very fast because our client is innocent.
If the lawyers are confident that Dhara B. Mhlanga is innocent, why not just push for an early trial date? The matter goes to trial, but the state fails to prove its case Dhara goes back home by June 2025.
If you take the bail route, mark my words: bail will be granted in December 2026.
The state is right to deny bail. If you are entirely innocent, you wouldn't be afraid to stand trial, so instead of making noise about bail, advocate for a speedy trial. The main reason is that we want this done very fast because our client is innocent.
A
Alternative Link
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Inosungisa, that's why Hopewell has been arrested countless times.
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