Zimbabwe: Journalist Blessed Mhlanga's Third Bail Bid Hits a Brick Wall

Alpha Media Holdings (AMH) journalist Blessed Mhlanga will remain in jail after his third bail bid flopped on Monday.

Mhlanga was seeking bail before Harare magistrate Donald Ndirowei, citing changed circumstances.

Through his lawyer Chris Mhike, Mhlanga said a month had lapsed since he was arrested and there was no progress regarding investigations.

Mhike also told the court that Mhlanga has not interfered with witnesses, adding that his family is struggling without him since he is the breadwinner.

But the State crushed his submissions, arguing that investigations were complete and prosecution is ready for trial.

The presiding magistrate upheld the State's arguments ruling that there were no new circumstances warranting his freedom.

Ndirowei also said Mhlanga was likely to abscond if granted bail.

"There are no changed circumstances which warrant the court to revisit its initial ruling and grant bail to the accused, therefore, the application for bail is hereby dismissed," he ruled.

Mhlanga had been in jail for the past month following his arrest for allegedly publishing a press conference by Zanu PF war veteran Blessed Geza who is also President Emmerson Mnangagwa's opponent.

Geza is currently in hiding and being sought by the police over four criminal charges.

Mhlanga was denied bail when he first appeared before the magistrates court.

He filed an appeal, which was dismissed by High Court Judge Justice Gibson Mandaza.

Mhlanga then went back to the lower court with the present application, which found no favour with the court.

Anesu Chirenje prosecuted.

AllAfrica publishes around 500 reports a day from more than 110 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.

Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.