Summary: Zimbabwean journalist Blessed Mhlanga, a senior journalist at Heart & Soul TV (HStv), was arrested for inciting violence related to his coverage of a critic of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. His detention has been widely condemned as an attack on press freedom, highlighting the risks faced by journalists in Zimbabwe. Mhlanga remains incarcerated, his case a focus of discussions about the state of journalism

Profile: Blessed Mhlanga is a distinguished journalist in Zimbabwe who is celebrated for his fearless reporting and dedication to press freedom. He serves as the head of the news department at Heart & Soul TV (HStv), a media platform under Alpha Media Holdings (AMH), which is also behind notable publications such as NewsDay, The Standard, and Zimbabwe Independent. Through his reporting, Mhlanga has consistently worked to uncover the truth and demand accountability from those in power.

Mhlanga’s unwavering commitment to journalism has come with significant personal and professional challenges. On February 24, 2025, he was arrested on charges of incitement to public violence, following his coverage of press conferences held by Blessed "Bombshell" Geza, a war veteran and outspoken critic of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. During these conferences, Geza called for the President’s resignation, citing issues of corruption, nepotism, and economic mismanagement. Mhlanga’s arrest has been widely condemned by media rights groups, with critics asserting that it represents an attempt to suppress independent journalism in Zimbabwe.

Mhlanga’s legal team, led by prominent lawyer Doug Coltart, has been vocal about the nature of his detention. Coltart stated, “Blessed Mhlanga’s arrest is a clear attack on press freedom. The charges brought against him are baseless and are an attempt to muzzle free expression.” Coltart has further emphasized that Mhlanga’s work as a journalist falls squarely within his professional rights, noting, “What we see here is an alarming trend of using the law as a weapon to intimidate and silence journalists who are doing their job.”

Despite the legal hurdles, Mhlanga has maintained his innocence and remains steadfast in his pursuit of journalistic integrity. His bail hearings have faced repeated delays, leaving his family in a state of uncertainty. As the primary breadwinner, his incarceration has also significantly disrupted his personal life. Mhlanga is married to Florence Mhlanga, and his detention has brought considerable challenges to their family.

In addition to his journalistic work, Mhlanga is pursuing a law degree at the University of Zimbabwe. His detention has negatively affected his studies, as he was unable to sit for a crucial criminology and criminal law examination. His incarceration has brought attention to the risks faced by journalists in Zimbabwe and has sparked broader discussions about the state of press freedom in the country.

While in detention, Mhlanga’s voice continues to resonate through letters shared with the public by his legal team. In one letter he asserts: “I remain committed to my work as a journalist, knowing that the truth is worth defending, no matter the cost.” These words have struck a chord with many, highlighting Mhlanga’s resilience and dedication.

Mhlanga’s story is a poignant reminder of the struggles journalists face in the pursuit of truth. His courage and determination underscore the critical importance of protecting press freedom and ensuring that the rights of journalists are upheld in Zimbabwe and beyond.