Opposition Group Alleges Foul Play After Explosives Found In Sikhala’s Vehicle

The National Democratic Working Group (NDWG) in Zimbabwe has denied that explosives allegedly discovered in opposition politician Job Sikhala’s vehicle during his arrest in Pretoria were his.

In a statement, NDWG deputy national spokesperson Silenkosi Moyo said Sikhala was “subjected to what is believed to be suspected foul play” when the vehicle he was travelling in was stopped and searched by the South African Police Service (SAPS). Said Moyo:

“During the search, explosives were allegedly discovered in the vehicle. Honourable Sikhala was subsequently arrested and is currently detained at Pretoria Central Prison.”

Moyo said their legal team was on the ground and working to support the opposition leader’s defence. Said Moyo:

“Our legal team is actively engaged on-site, working diligently to ensure the best possible defence for Honourable Sikhala. We categorically maintain that the explosives found do not belong to him.

“As the National Democratic Working Group, we stand unwaveringly beside our leader and reaffirm our commitment to defending him through all legal means available.

“The National Democratic Working Group is deeply saddened by these recent events.

“In these challenging times, we respectfully request that members of the public keep Honourable Sikhala in their thoughts and prayers.”

Sikhala’s arrest in South Africa comes less than a year after he was released from detention in Zimbabwe, where he had been held for allegedly inciting public violence.

Rights groups and opposition figures have long accused the ZANU-PF-led government of targeting him for his political activism.

Sikhala remains one of the most outspoken critics of the ruling party, consistently speaking out against corruption and human rights abuses in Zimbabwe.

His latest arrest has sparked concern among Zimbabweans in the diaspora and raised questions about the circumstances of his detention in South Africa.

At the same time, some people linked to the ruling establishment claim Sikhala has been involved in criminal activity and welcomed his arrest in Pretoria.

Related:

South Africa Court Postpones Sikhala Explosives Case As DNA Evidence Falls Through Unauthorised Possession Of Explosives A Criminal Offence – ZRP