The High Court turned down Blessed Mhlanga's request to leave jail today. The Alpha Media Holdings reporter stays locked up after Judge Gibson Mandaza agreed with the earlier court ruling. Mhlanga faces charges about sending messages that could have started public fighting after he covered a press talk by Blessed Geza.
His lawyers tried to change Magistrate Farai Gwitima's first decision to keep him behind bars. Judge Mandaza agreed with the lower court that letting Mhlanga go free might mess up the police work still happening. The judge threw out claims from Mhlanga's legal team, saying this case attacks news freedom. He stated all reporters must follow the laws just like everyone else.
The first judge had worried Mhlanga would talk to people who might testify against him if released. Many possible witnesses work under Mhlanga at his news company. Magistrate Gwitima scolded the defense lawyers for making light of heavy charges that could affect peace across the country.
The court case continues, with Mhlanga staying in jail. Both courts have shown concern about protecting the investigation rather than Mhlanga's job as a reporter. His team continues to fight the charges as part of broader questions about press rights versus public safety concerns in the country.
His lawyers tried to change Magistrate Farai Gwitima's first decision to keep him behind bars. Judge Mandaza agreed with the lower court that letting Mhlanga go free might mess up the police work still happening. The judge threw out claims from Mhlanga's legal team, saying this case attacks news freedom. He stated all reporters must follow the laws just like everyone else.
The first judge had worried Mhlanga would talk to people who might testify against him if released. Many possible witnesses work under Mhlanga at his news company. Magistrate Gwitima scolded the defense lawyers for making light of heavy charges that could affect peace across the country.
The court case continues, with Mhlanga staying in jail. Both courts have shown concern about protecting the investigation rather than Mhlanga's job as a reporter. His team continues to fight the charges as part of broader questions about press rights versus public safety concerns in the country.
