*_President Chamisa in Solidarity with Award-Winning Journalist Blessed Mhlanga: "Targeting Journalists is Archaic"_* 28th February 2025 *Wezhira Munya* President Nelson Chamisa has expressed unwavering solidarity with renowned journalist Blessed Mhlanga, who is currently facing legal challenges that have drawn significant public attention. The atmosphere outside the Harare Magistrates' Courts has become a focal point of resistance, with riot police present at every hearing as thousands of citizens gather to support Mhlanga, an award-winning journalist from Alpha Media Holdings. `Follow and Share Change Radio for Real-Time News and Updates on WhatsApp!` https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va5kPp2KGGGQkePy4t1q In a statement shared on his platform, The Chamisa News Channel, which has garnered a following of 56,000, President Chamisa condemned Mhlanga's arrest, describing it as "a flagrant violation of fundamental freedoms and human rights." He articulated his concerns further by stating, "This arrest is an affront to civilization, press freedom, and democracy." President Chamisa emphasized the critical role of journalism in society, asserting, "Journalism is the oxygen that sustains society. A free press is the lifeblood of a progressive and functional modern society." His remarks underline the essential function of journalists in fostering transparency and accountability within governance. Moreover, he highlighted the constitutional protections afforded to journalists in Zimbabwe, invoking Section 61 of the country's Constitution, which guarantees freedom of the media. “This right must be upheld!” President Chamisa declared, reinforcing the idea that a vibrant media landscape is integral to a healthy democracy. The President further noted, “The first indicator that those in government have turned against the people is in the targeting of journalists as conveyors of information and news. Journalism as a profession must be protected. Zimbabwe shall soon be the land of the free and happy!” Mhlanga's plight has captured widespread attention, especially after he spent another night in detention following a postponement of his bail ruling. A Harare magistrate, Marewanazvo Gofa, deferred the decision to today, citing the unavailability of the initial presiding magistrate, Farai Gwatima, who was attending to a bereavement. Mhlanga was arrested on Monday, 24th February 2025, and charged with inciting public violence in connection with his reporting on ZANU PF central committee member Blessings Geza, who has publicly called for the resignation of Emmerson Mnangagwa due to severe corruption and other evils. His defense attorney, Chris Mhike, argued that Mhlanga was wrongfully detained while fulfilling his journalistic responsibilities and should be granted bail. However, prosecutors opposed the bail application, claiming Mhlanga could potentially interfere with witnesses, including his subordinates at Heart and Soul Broadcasting Services, where he serves as head of news. The case against Mhlanga stems from his filming of Geza during events on 27th January and 11th February 2025, during which the war veteran allegedly called for Mnangagwa's removal. Prosecutors assert that Mhlanga's actions were intended to incite public unrest. As the court prepares to rule on the bail application today, the situation remains tense, with many viewing Mhlanga's case as emblematic of the broader struggles for press freedom and human rights in Zimbabwe. President Chamisa's vocal support not only highlights the importance of protecting journalists but also reflects a growing movement among citizens demanding accountability and transparency from their government.