Journalist Mhlanga trial fails to start
15 May, 2025
What happened
The trial of Alpha Media Holdings (AMH) senior journalist Blessed Mhlanga and Heart & Soul TV (HStv) failed to start as scheduled on 14 May 2025 after the State made an application to consolidate the two cases.
According to NewsDay in its edition of 15 May 2025, prosecutor Anesu Chirenje told Harare magistrate Learnmore Mapiye, the evidence in both matters overlapped significantly and warranted a joint trial.
However, Mhlanga’s lawyer Chris Mhike argued that the journalist and HStv be charged separately as the State had previously refused to charge HStv as requested by the defence during Mhlanga’s bail application.
Beatrice Mtetwa representing HStv, supported Mhike’s position insisting that Mhlanga’s trial should proceed as scheduled.
The court is expected to make a ruling today (15 May 2025).
Mhlanga is facing two counts of contravening Section 164 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act which deals with transmitting data messages inciting violence or damage to property.
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About MISA
The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) was founded in 1992. Its work focuses on promoting, and advocating for, the unhindered enjoyment of freedom of expression, access to information and a free, independent, diverse and pluralistic media.
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Those affected:
Alpha Media Holdings (AMH) senior journalist Blessed Mhlanga
Alpha Media Holdings (AMH) senior journalist Blessed Mhlanga
Number affected:
1
1
Perpetrators:
Zimbabwe Republic Police
Zimbabwe Republic Police
Types of actors:
Quasi-state
Quasi-state
Location:
Harare
Harare