Blessed Mhlanga
Rutendo Mazhindu - ZimNow Reporter
The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) expressed concern over the recent arrest and detention of Alpha Media Holdings senior journalist Blessed Mhlanga, calling for the upholding of constitutional rights even in politically sensitive cases.
Mhlanga was provisionally released from prison on May 7th, having been held for 72 days. His arrest on February 24th stemmed from charges of "transmitting data messages that incite violence or damage to property." This occurred after he interviewed a war veteran and former senior member of the ruling Zanu-PF party Blessed Geza who had criticised President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
In a statement released yesterday, the Commission confirmed that Mhlanga is facing two counts under Section 136 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, which relates to the transmission of messages inciting violence or property damage.
“This is a notable and commendable departure from past occasions whereby law enforcement agencies have previously been found wanting in regard to upholding the dictates of Sections 50, 52 and 53 of the Constitution,” the Commission said.
“The ZHRC therefore commends the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) for abiding by the Constitution, and urges it do so in all cases.”
The Commission, however, raised concerns about the increasing trend of arrests of journalists and human rights defenders during periods of heightened political interest.
“Such political interest frequently clouds the justice delivery process and procedures, often at the expense of the accused persons’ rights,” said ZHRC.
The ZHRC reminded the need to uphold constitutional rights at all times, particularly those enshrined in sections 56 through 67, which include equal protection before the law, freedoms of expression, association, and media, as well as the right to practice one’s profession.
“It is acceptable to openly share views and debate even sensitive political issues, such as the current debate on the amendment of the Constitution to extend presidential terms to 2030 or beyond,” the Commission stated.
“Every person in Zimbabwe has a right to express their views without fear of persecution or reprisal on this or any other matter.”
The ZHRC also called on the government to fulfil its obligations under international instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights.
“The ZHRC further reminds the Government of Zimbabwe of UN resolutions on the treatment of journalists, including the Human Rights Council Resolution HRC/RES/21/12 on the safety of journalists,” the Commission said.
It said that arrested individuals must enjoy the rights to bail, fair hearing, and administrative justice as guaranteed under Sections 49, 50, 68, and 69 of the Constitution.
The Commission urged the Government to ratify international treaties like the UN Convention Against Torture and the UN Convention Against Enforced Disappearances, and called on Parliament to promote public access to robust political debates.
“The ZHRC is inspired by its vision of a Zimbabwean society where human rights and administrative justice are fully enjoyed by all,” ZHRC stated.
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