A British lord spoke against Zimbabwe for its poor press freedom record. Lord Jonny Oates told Parliament that Zimbabwe silences journalists through fear, jail time, and sometimes murder. He mentioned reporter Blessed Mhlanga, who sits behind bars after two months because his TV station aired a war veteran's press talk. The veteran opposed plans to keep President Mnangagwa in power longer and pointed out government corruption.
Oates asked Britain to pressure Zimbabwe until it stops locking up reporters and starts following democratic rules. He noted the First Lady plans to visit London soon for a summit. He urged British officials to question her about the jailed journalist and her husband's harsh leadership style. Mhlanga faces court on April 30 after earlier bail attempts failed.
Police arrested the 44-year-old newsman on February 24. They charged him with sending messages that could cause violence. Three courts denied his freedom requests. His lawyer from Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights keeps fighting for him. The court said releasing him would hurt justice since prosecutors stand ready for trial.
Oates asked Britain to pressure Zimbabwe until it stops locking up reporters and starts following democratic rules. He noted the First Lady plans to visit London soon for a summit. He urged British officials to question her about the jailed journalist and her husband's harsh leadership style. Mhlanga faces court on April 30 after earlier bail attempts failed.
Police arrested the 44-year-old newsman on February 24. They charged him with sending messages that could cause violence. Three courts denied his freedom requests. His lawyer from Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights keeps fighting for him. The court said releasing him would hurt justice since prosecutors stand ready for trial.
