Zimbabwe officials brushed off British lawmakers who want action over jailed reporter Blessed Mhlanga. Information Secretary Nick Mangwana said foreign emotional outbursts mean almost nothing for Zimbabwe's affairs. He posted this message after Liberal Democrats member Lord Jonny Oates pushed for consequences.
Oates asked the UK to tell Zimbabwe's First Lady that normal relations will stay frozen unless press freedom improves. The pressure comes before the First Lady speaks at an African summit in London this June. British lawmakers attending should challenge her about Mhlanga's jail time, Oates said. UK-based Zimbabwe activists plan to protest outside when she speaks.
Mhlanga has spent 60 days locked up without trial. His arrest happened because he interviewed war veteran Blessed Geza, who called for President Mnangagwa to step down. Officials charged Mhlanga with sending messages that stir up violence. The government sees foreign criticism as empty talk that carries no weight at home.
Oates asked the UK to tell Zimbabwe's First Lady that normal relations will stay frozen unless press freedom improves. The pressure comes before the First Lady speaks at an African summit in London this June. British lawmakers attending should challenge her about Mhlanga's jail time, Oates said. UK-based Zimbabwe activists plan to protest outside when she speaks.
Mhlanga has spent 60 days locked up without trial. His arrest happened because he interviewed war veteran Blessed Geza, who called for President Mnangagwa to step down. Officials charged Mhlanga with sending messages that stir up violence. The government sees foreign criticism as empty talk that carries no weight at home.
