Harare Regional Magistrate Learnmore Mapiye has consolidated the cases of Alpha Media Holdings (AMH) journalist Blessed Mhlanga and his employer, Heart & Soul TV (HSTV), for the purposes of a joint trial, scheduled to commence on 17 June.
Mhlanga and HSTV are jointly charged with disseminating material alleged to incite violence or damage to property.
The charges arise from their coverage of two press briefings held by war veteran and former ZANU PF Central Committee member Blessed Geza, on 27 January and 11 February.
In her ruling delivered on Thursday, 15 May, Magistrate Mapiye stated that both accused parties were present at the same press conferences.
She further noted that it is clear the charges they face pertain to the same alleged offence. Said Mapiye:
It will be in the interest of justice for both parties to be jointly charged for purposes of trial.
Mapiye directed that Mhlanga shall be cited as Accused Number One, with HSTV designated as Accused Number Two.
The defence opposed the State’s application to consolidate the records, submitting that no legal authority had been cited in support of such a request.
Counsel for the defence further contended that Mhlanga had been apprehended alone.
The charges arise from coverage of two press briefings held by Geza on 27 January and 11 February 2025.
During these briefings, Geza reportedly called for the removal of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, remarks which the State alleges were capable of inciting public disorder.
The prosecution asserts that by broadcasting the press events on HSTV and on the YouTube platform, Mhlanga unlawfully disseminated material that could provoke violence or civil unrest.
More: The Herald
Back to top