Key Points
- Arrests of journalists and activists could damage Zimbabwe’s global reputation.
- ZHRC urges adherence to constitutional and international obligations.
- Blessed Mhlanga remains in custody, facing incitement allegations.
The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) has warned that the arrests of Alpha Media Holdings journalist Blessed Mhlanga and political activists risk pushing the country back into an era of repression and damaging its international reputation.
Concerns over rights violations
Zimbabwe, once labeled a pariah state for rights violations, now faces renewed scrutiny. The ZHRC stated that these arrests stain Zimbabwe’s justice system, which faces accusations of manipulation by the ruling Zanu PF party.
“The ZHRC is deeply concerned by the arrests of journalists and human rights defenders, particularly in politically charged cases,” the commission stated.
“Political interests often compromise the justice process and the accused’s rights, eroding Zimbabwe’s progress in upholding fundamental freedoms.”
Upholding constitutional and global obligations
The Commission reminded the Government of Zimbabwe (GoZ) of its obligations under the national Constitution and international agreements.
These include the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights.
“Freedom of opinion and expression is protected by multiple international frameworks, including UN resolutions on journalist safety,” the commission noted. “Everyone has the right to debate even sensitive political issues without fear of reprisal.”
Treatment of journalist Blessed Mhlanga
The Commission praised the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) for treating Mhlanga with dignity but raised concerns about his detention conditions.
Mhlanga turned himself in on February 24, 2025, and remains in custody at Harare Remand Prison. The Harare Magistrate Court denied him bail, and his appeal at the High Court remains postponed indefinitely.
Mhlanga faces incitement charges after HSTV aired a press briefing by expelled Zanu-PF member Blessed Geza, who called for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s resignation.
Call for safeguarding fundamental freedoms
The ZHRC emphasized that expressing political opinions or debating issues like constitutional amendments is a fundamental right. “Every Zimbabwean has the right to express their views without fear of persecution or reprisal,” the statement declared.
