Journalist Blessed Mhlanga's Arrest Exposes Zim's ...

Journalist Blessed Mhlanga's Arrest Exposes Zim's Fragile Press Freedom

Oscar J Jeke- Zim Now Reporter

The recent arrest of journalist Blessed Mhlanga on February 24, 2025, has once again highlighted the precarious state of press freedom in Zimbabwe. Mhlanga, a senior journalist with Alpha Media Holdings and head of news at HStv, was detained after conducting interviews with war veteran and ZANU-PF central committee member, Blessed Geza, who had openly criticized President Emmerson Mnangagwa's leadership.

Mhlanga is facing charges under Section 164 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, accused of "transmitting data messages that incite violence and damage to property." However, the Media Alliance of Zimbabwe and legal experts argue that his actions fall squarely within the domain of journalism, and his arrest is a blatant attempt to muzzle dissenting voices.

The crackdown on Mhlanga is part of a broader trend of repression in Zimbabwe, where the government has been tightening its grip on free speech.

The enactment of the Patriotic Bill on May 31, 2023, criminalized actions deemed to "damage the national interest," further restricting press freedom.

Mhlanga's arrest has drawn widespread condemnation from media watchdogs, human rights groups, and opposition leaders.

The Zimbabwe National Editors Forum labeled the arrest "a direct attack on press freedom," while Amnesty International urged authorities to drop all charges, stating that "journalism is not a crime".

The implications of Mhlanga's arrest are profound, highlighting the need for sustained pressure and legal reforms to protect press freedom and democratic rights in Zimbabwe.

As the country approaches the upcoming electoral cycle, concerns about media freedom and government interference are likely to escalate.