UPDATED: Sikhala Arrested For "Publishing False Information" On Social Media

Firebrand politician, MDC Alliance Vice Chairman Job Sikhala has been arrested. He was reportedly arrested at the Harare Magistrate Court where he was part of the legal team representing Hopewell Chin’ono.

He is being represented by Jeremiah Bhamu according to Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human rights. According to Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human rights, Sikhala is being charged for publishing false information on social media:

Broad charge against @JobSikhala1is sec 31 of Criminal Code ‘Publishing or communicating false statements prejudicial to the state’ in that he is accused of – sec 31(a)(i) publishing or communicating a statement intending or realising risk or possibility of inciting or promoting public order or public violence or endangering public safety, with alternative charge, sec 31(a)(iii) – undermining public confidence in law enforcement agency.

@JobSikhala1 has been detained & is expected to appear at Rottenrow Crt on 11 Jan. The charges arise from statements made on social media platforms (Facebook & Twitter) by @JobSikhala1 on the famous incident involving “a certain mother, child and a cop” that took place in Harare.

Job Sikhala yesterday said he had been told that ZRP officers were going to arrest him and he also said he reportedly heard they wanted to expose him to COVID-19.

Journalist Hopewell Chin’ono was also arrested and he is currently detained over the same incident:

Source: ZLHR Twitter