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Message: [QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 26749, member: 2262"] Alpha Media Holdings reporter Blessed Mhlanga plans to contest recent judicial decisions after Harare magistrate Farai Gwitima refused to grant release from custody last Friday. The court ordered continued detention until March 14, 2025. Legal authorities accuse the media professional of distributing content allegedly encouraging violent actions following interviews with Blessed Geza, a military veteran currently disputing President Mnangagwa's leadership position. Geza disappeared from public view after police announced pending arrest warrants citing public disorder instigation, among various charges. Magistrate Gwitima rejected the bail application, stating the well-known journalist might commit additional offenses and possibly hamper testimony from subordinate colleagues. The judicial officer further declared that releasing Mhlanga could potentially trigger societal disruption, threatening Zimbabwe's stability. The court stated concerns focused specifically on content distribution rather than information gathering itself. Authorities believe releasing the accused might compromise ongoing investigations since numerous witness statements remain uncollected. The magistrate emphasized messages spread through media channels could, according to their interpretation, encourage destructive behavior. Court findings concluded that state representatives successfully demonstrated compelling justifications for extended detention. Legal representative Chris Mhike expressed disappointment regarding the verdict. He confirmed immediate preparations for High Court submission challenging these findings. Trevor Ncube, the publishing executive who attended proceedings supporting his senior staff member, suggested he deserved prosecution instead. Ncube criticized President Mnangagwa for allegedly controlling judicial processes, describing current circumstances as particularly challenging for Zimbabwean press freedom. Mhlanga communicated through handwritten correspondence from detention facilities, expressing determination despite current circumstances. He compared writing about injustice to personally experiencing it, referencing academic perspectives on legal definitions versus practical applications. The journalist described imprisonment as designed to break individual spirits yet produce contrary effects. He acknowledged supporter encouragement during difficult periods, expressing gratitude toward family members throughout the ordeal. The detained reporter addressed those responsible for his current situation with predictions regarding eventual justice. He maintains his ethical position despite facing significant personal consequences for professional activities. Media freedom advocates continue monitoring developments as Zimbabwe experiences ongoing tensions between press independence and governmental authority. Constitutional protections for journalistic practices remain central points within broader debates about democratic processes throughout the region. [/QUOTE]

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