SYDNEY MUBAIWA
MASVINGO-The Zimbabwe Union of Journalists (ZUJ) has condemned the arrest and detention of Alpha Media Holdings’ online broadcasting platform presenter Blessed Dhara Mhlanga.
Mhlanga was arrested by police yesterday after he presented himself to the police in the company of his lawyer, Chris Mhike.
Recently Mhlanga conducted cutting edge interviews with Zanu PF Central committee member and war veteran Blessed Runesu Bombshell Geza gave President Mnagagwa an ultimatum to step down for presiding over a corrupt Government.
He was subsequently arrested for contravening Section 164 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, Chapter 9:23; for allegedly transforming data messages that incite violence.
In a statement released yesterday, ZUJ prayed for the immediate release of Mhlanga. The body said the rights of journalists and their working conditions in Zimbabwe were under siege from authorities.
“The Zimbabwe Union of Journalists (ZUJ) vehemently condemns the arbitrary arrest and detention of Alpha Media Holdings journalist Blessed Mhlanga on accusations of contravening Section 164 of the Criminal Law, Codification and Reform Act.
“The continued use of this Act to criminalise legitimate journalistic activities is a gross violation of fundamental human rights,” reads part of the statement.
The union said the continued arrests and assaults of journalists were totally unacceptable and a disgrace to the Zimbabwean Constitution.
“As ZUJ, we want to be unequivocally clear that journalism is not a crime. Providing a platform for diverse views from diverse members of the body, polity and the generality of our citizens can surely not constitute a crime of incitement.
“The Zimbabwe Constitution guarantees freedom of expression of the media as fundamental rights. The continued harassment and intimidation of Mhlanga proceeding to his arrest demonstrate a clear and present danger to these rights,” further reads the statement.
The union called authorities to immediately release Mhlanga and stop the continued harassment of journalists.
“The union stands in solidarity with Mhlanga and all journalists in Zimbabwe who are bravely working to keep our nation informed and we appeal for his immediate release.
“We call on the authorities to cease the relentless assault of press freedom and respect the constitutional rights of journalists to operate without fear or reprisal,” the statement said.
Mhlanga was yesterday interrogated by police about the broadcaster’s operations and for a press conference addressed by Geza.
Mhlanga who is represented by prominent Harare lawyer Chris Mhike will appear in court today.
