A Zimbabwe judge freed journalist Blessed Mhlanga on Tuesday after his two-month jail stay. Justice Gibson Mandaza approved $500 bail, saying earlier courts made a mistake. Mhlanga faced arrest on February 24 for talking with Blessed Geza, who asked President Emmerson Mnangagwa to leave office. Rights groups slammed the detention as part of growing press limits. The case added to fears about less freedom in the southern African nation.
The earlier courts claimed Mhlanga might cause trouble if released. Geza, once part of the ruling Zanu-PF party, fights against plans to keep Mnangagwa as leader past 2028. He asked people to protest against the president, whom he called corrupt. Police arrested nearly 100 people during small protests on March 31. Mhlanga goes to trial May 14 for his work with Heart and Soul Television.
Reporters Without Borders says officials wrongly accused Mhlanga. Zimbabwe ranks 116th out of 180 countries for press freedom. The Paris group notes more attacks on the media since Mnangagwa won a second term last year. Heart and Soul Television also faces legal problems for showing the interview that started this case.
The earlier courts claimed Mhlanga might cause trouble if released. Geza, once part of the ruling Zanu-PF party, fights against plans to keep Mnangagwa as leader past 2028. He asked people to protest against the president, whom he called corrupt. Police arrested nearly 100 people during small protests on March 31. Mhlanga goes to trial May 14 for his work with Heart and Soul Television.
Reporters Without Borders says officials wrongly accused Mhlanga. Zimbabwe ranks 116th out of 180 countries for press freedom. The Paris group notes more attacks on the media since Mnangagwa won a second term last year. Heart and Soul Television also faces legal problems for showing the interview that started this case.
