Detained HStv senior journalist Blessed Mhlanga was unable to sit for his scheduled law exam at the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) after failing to secure release from Harare Remand Prison.
Mhlanga remains in custody on charges of incitement to violence following HStv’s coverage of a series of press conferences held by outspoken war veteran Blessed “Bombshell” Geza, whose current whereabouts are unknown.
During these conferences, Geza accused President Emmerson Mnangagwa of incompetence, nepotism, and failing to address corruption, urging him to step down.
Following the remarks, authorities launched a crackdown on Geza, while Mhlanga was arrested and placed in remand prison. His attempts to secure bail have so far been unsuccessful.
Law enforcement officials have stated they are seeking Geza for questioning on charges of incitement to violence, undermining the authority of the President, and theft.
On Tuesday night, Geza resurfaced on YouTube, calling for Mhlanga’s release.
“We are deeply concerned about the arrest of Blessed Mhlanga,” he stated. “This is a clear attempt to suppress democratic voices. We demand his immediate and unconditional release.”
Meanwhile, it emerged that Mhlanga was unable to sit for his criminology and criminal law exam at UZ.
“Mhlanga has now spent 23 days in detention for a crime he did not commit. He is a law student and was due to write an exam today,” journalist Hopewell Chin’ono posted on X (formerly Twitter). Chin’ono has been coordinating efforts for Mhlanga’s release on behalf of his family.
Harare magistrate Farai Gwitima denied Mhlanga bail, citing concerns that he could interfere with witnesses if released.
Media rights organizations have condemned Mhlanga’s continued detention, arguing that his arrest represents an attack on press freedom.
Alpha Media Holdings (AMH) chairperson Trevor Ncube insisted that Mhlanga had not committed any offense.
“His harassment and intimidation are intended to send a chilling message to journalists and the public against speaking out about the failures of this government,” Ncube posted on X after visiting Mhlanga in prison.
AMH, which publishes NewsDay, The Standard, and Zimbabwe Independent, also operates HStv, an online radio and television platform.
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