Prosecutors opened their case against Alpha Media Holdings journalist Blessed Mhlanga and HStv general manager Olga Muteiwa on Tuesday. The state accuses both defendants of broadcasting content that could provoke public violence. Their charges relate to HStv coverage of press conferences conducted by former Zanu PF Central Committee member Blessed Geza during January and February. Detective Edmore Nyazamba testified that the broadcasts threatened national security. Both defendants entered not guilty pleas when proceedings began.
The investigating officer told the court that Geza made inflammatory statements during press briefings held on January 27 and February 11. Authorities allege the defendants facilitated publication of these events through live streaming and social media distribution. Detective Nyazamba stated that Mhlanga maintained contact with Geza through X platform calls that prove difficult to monitor. Transport arrangements for Mhlanga and his camera crew were allegedly organized by Geza for the undisclosed venue meetings. The prosecution contends these actions violated public order statutes.
Defense attorney Chris Mhike argued that charges against Mhlanga lack foundation since his client neither controls nor directs HStv operations. The lawyer emphasized that Mhlanga possesses no access to broadcasting accounts or computer transmission systems. Beatrice Mtetwa represents Muteiwa and challenged the charge sheet as legally defective. The defense maintains the allegations fail to establish any recognizable criminal offense. Prosecutors claim Geza called for government removal during the broadcasts, creating potential for civil unrest through YouTube and HStv distribution channels.
The investigating officer told the court that Geza made inflammatory statements during press briefings held on January 27 and February 11. Authorities allege the defendants facilitated publication of these events through live streaming and social media distribution. Detective Nyazamba stated that Mhlanga maintained contact with Geza through X platform calls that prove difficult to monitor. Transport arrangements for Mhlanga and his camera crew were allegedly organized by Geza for the undisclosed venue meetings. The prosecution contends these actions violated public order statutes.
Defense attorney Chris Mhike argued that charges against Mhlanga lack foundation since his client neither controls nor directs HStv operations. The lawyer emphasized that Mhlanga possesses no access to broadcasting accounts or computer transmission systems. Beatrice Mtetwa represents Muteiwa and challenged the charge sheet as legally defective. The defense maintains the allegations fail to establish any recognizable criminal offense. Prosecutors claim Geza called for government removal during the broadcasts, creating potential for civil unrest through YouTube and HStv distribution channels.
