Judgment reserved in journalist Mhlanga’s bail application
17 Mar, 2025
What happened
High Court judge Justice Gibson Mandaza on 17 March 2025 reserved judgment to give him time to consider submissions by the defence and the State in the bail application hearing for detained Alpha Media Holdings senior journalist Blessed Mhlanga.
The judge stated that he required a few days to consider the submissions made by both the State and Mhlanga’s lawyer, Chris Mhike.
Meanwhile, Justice Mandaza dismissed lawyer Chris Mhike’s application requesting the State release videographic and electronic evidence that it is basing its case on.
He dismissed the application on the grounds that the High Court on Appeal does not hear any fresh evidence which was not addressed in the Magistrates Court.
background
This comes after his lawyers appealed to the High Court against Harare Magistrate Farai Gwitima’s decision on 28 February 2025 denying the journalist bail.
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.
MISA's position
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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Latest media violations
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:
State
State
Location:
Harare
Harare