By A Correspondent
Alpha Media Holdings journalist Blessed Mhlanga has faced harassment by State Security agents following his work interviewing political figures.
The Zimbabwe National Editor’s Forum (ZINEF) has raised alarm over Mhlanga’s arrest, calling it an act of intimidation aimed at silencing press freedom.
Mhlanga, who works for the HStv platform, was quizzed by police on 24 February 2025, allegedly for violating Section 164 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, Chapter 9:23.
Authorities claim he transmitted messages that incite violence, linked to interviews with war veterans leader Blessed Geza and others.
The police investigation stems from statements made during interviews on 27 January 2025 and 11 February 2025, in which Geza, a former liberation war veteran and Zanu PF central committee member, allegedly made inflammatory comments.
During the interrogation, police focused on Mhlanga’s role as a journalist and the press conferences addressed by Geza.
Despite Mhlanga’s work falling within the scope of legitimate journalism, he has been detained overnight at Harare Central Police Station. His lawyer, Chris Mhike, confirmed Mhlanga’s detention and his expected court appearance the following day.
Geza, for his part, is now wanted by authorities on multiple charges, including insulting the President. His wife, Roseline Tawengwa, has also been detained by the police, with the whereabouts of Geza still unknown.
ZINEF has strongly condemned Mhlanga’s arrest, emphasizing that his journalistic actions were legitimate and conducted in the public interest. The forum insists that the arrest of journalists for doing their jobs has a chilling effect on press freedom and undermines the constitutionally protected right to freedom of expression. In its statement, ZINEF demanded Mhlanga’s immediate release, urging authorities to ensure his safety in custody and refrain from any form of mistreatment.
Furthermore, ZINEF reiterated its call for the government to respect the constitutional rights of journalists, particularly those enshrined in Section 61 of Zimbabwe’s Constitution. This section guarantees the right to freedom of expression, media freedom, and the right to seek and communicate information. The organization reminded the government that while freedom of expression does not extend to promoting violence or hate speech, Mhlanga’s interviews fall well within the bounds of journalistic and constitutional rights.
ZINEF also called for a safer working environment for journalists, free from harassment and intimidation. The organization expressed solidarity with Mhlanga, his family, and colleagues, emphasizing their continued commitment to advocating for the protection of journalists’ rights and press freedom in Zimbabwe.
Amnesty International has also condemned the arrest, with a statement expressing strong support for Mhlanga. The human rights organization criticized the Zimbabwean authorities for using the justice system to suppress media freedom, which it views as essential for advancing human rights and a free society.
Amnesty International called for the immediate release of Mhlanga and the unconditional dropping of all charges against him. The organization reaffirmed that journalism is not a crime, and media professionals should be allowed to work without fear of retaliation.
This incident highlights growing concerns about press freedom in Zimbabwe, where journalists continue to face intimidation and legal threats for their work.
Both local and international organizations have voiced their support for Mhlanga, calling for a free press and an end to government attempts to stifle independent journalism.