*_Breaking News: Zanu PF Employs Lawfare to Persecute Award-Winning Journalist Blessed Mhlanga_* 28th February 2025 *Wezhira Munya — Change Radio* In a troubling development for press freedom in Zimbabwe, Harare Magistrate Farai Gwatima has denied bail to award-winning journalist Blessed Mhlanga. The decision was made during a hearing today, with Mhlanga remanded in custody until 14th March 2025. This means, Mhlanga will spend an additional two weeks in a cold and filthy prison. `Follow and Share Change Radio for Real-Time News and Updates on WhatsApp!` https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va5kPp2KGGGQkePy4t1q Magistrate Gwatima justified the denial of bail, stating, "The release of the accused (Mhlanga) would put the nation in unrest and undermine peace and security." This assertion raises serious concerns about the judicial system's role in suppressing dissenting voices. Mhlanga faces persecution for his reporting on the activities of disgruntled war veterans, including Blessed Geza, who have been vocal in their demands for Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa to resign. The tension has escalated as these veterans, aligned with Zanu-PF Vice President Constantine Chiwenga, have expressed dissatisfaction with the current administration. The police have refrained from arresting Geza and his cohorts, fearing that such actions could incite unrest within the country. In a stark contradiction, the authorities have instead targeted Mhlanga, an innocent journalist simply fulfilling his professional duties. His arrest on 24th February 2025 has drawn widespread condemnation from President Nelson Chamisa and millions of Zimbabweans, who have criticized the police's actions as an attack on press freedom and a blatant misuse of power. Advocate Chris Mhike has taken up Mhlanga's case, vowing to fight for the journalist’s rights and to challenge the legal basis of his arrest. The growing outcry from civil society and international observers highlights the precarious state of democracy in Zimbabwe, where lawfare is increasingly being employed to silence dissent and intimidate those who dare to report the truth. As the situation develops, the eyes of the nation remain on the courts and the government, with many calling for accountability and justice for Mhlanga and other journalists facing similar threats.