The trial for journalist Blessed Mhlanga did not start yesterday at the Harare court. The government prosecutor asked to combine his case with Heart and Soul TV at the last minute. He claimed both cases shared much of the same evidence. Defense lawyers strongly disagreed with joining the cases together. They argued the prosecutor had earlier refused to charge the TV station when Mhlanga applied for bail.
The court plans to decide today whether to keep the cases separate or merge. Both Mhlanga and the TV station face accusations of spreading messages that could cause violence. These charges came after Mhlanga covered press events where former government member Blessed Geza called for the removal of President Mnangagwa. The government claims broadcasting these interviews on television and YouTube might spark public unrest.
Reporters Without Borders asked Zimbabwe officials to end all charges against the journalist. The press freedom group stated this case threatens free media in Zimbabwe. If found guilty, Mhlanga could serve five years in jail or pay $700. The group believes the journalist should never have faced arrest for doing his job.
The court plans to decide today whether to keep the cases separate or merge. Both Mhlanga and the TV station face accusations of spreading messages that could cause violence. These charges came after Mhlanga covered press events where former government member Blessed Geza called for the removal of President Mnangagwa. The government claims broadcasting these interviews on television and YouTube might spark public unrest.
Reporters Without Borders asked Zimbabwe officials to end all charges against the journalist. The press freedom group stated this case threatens free media in Zimbabwe. If found guilty, Mhlanga could serve five years in jail or pay $700. The group believes the journalist should never have faced arrest for doing his job.
