The United States Embassy in Zimbabwe has expressed its concern over the arrest and denial of bail of Blessed Mhlanga, a journalist from Alpha Media Holdings (AMH).
The embassy is urging the Harare authorities to respect the fundamental right to press freedom.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, the U.S. Embassy emphasized that all journalists should be afforded constitutional rights, including bail and freedom of speech. The embassy stated:
“Journalists should be granted the constitutional rights to bail and free speech.”
Mhlanga was arrested on Monday, with accusations that he shared information potentially leading to violence or property damage. He is facing charges under Section 164 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act.
On Friday, Harare magistrate Farai Gwitima ruled to deny Mhlanga bail, citing concerns that he might interfere with witnesses or jeopardize the investigation.
The charges against Mhlanga are connected to interviews he reportedly conducted with Blessed Geza, a war veteran from the ruling ZANU PF party, who has voiced opposition to President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s 2030 agenda. Geza is currently being sought by the police for charges of incitement, undermining the President’s authority, and theft.
Geza has publicly criticized Mnangagwa, calling for his resignation and accusing him of corruption, poor leadership, and favoritism.
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