In Zimbabwe a warrant of arrest was issued on 9 March 2026 for a journalist working for HSTV after he failed to appear in court for the continuation of his trial.
Defence lawyers, Doug Coltart and Chris Mhike, submitted a medical report indicating that journalist Blessed Mhlanga is currently in South Africa seeking medical treatment.
Prosecutor Anesu Chirenje objected to the medical report, asserting that the document’s authenticity required verification.
Magistrate Sheunesu Matova ruled that a warrant of arrest be issued and postponed the matter to 10 April 2026.
The magistrate stated that when Mhlanga appears, a default inquiry will be held to find out whether the absence was wilful or reasonably justified. The result will decide if the warrant is cancelled or if additional conditions are applied.
Mhlanga faces charges of transmitting data messages allegedly aimed at inciting public violence.
[Report by Misa Zimbabwe.]
