Source: Trial of Mhlanga, HStv begins – herald
Blessed MhlangaProsper Dembedza-Herald Correspondent
THE trial of Alpha Media Holdings journalist Blessed Mhlanga and HStv general manager Olga Muteiwa opened yesterday, with the prosecution alleging the pair transmitted material that could incite violence.
The charges stem from HStv’s coverage of two press conferences held by former Zanu PF Central Committee member, Blessed Geza, on January 27 and February 11 this year.
Testifying in court, the investigating officer, Detective Edmore Nyazamba, said the statements made by Geza and broadcast via HStv and social media platforms posed a potential threat to national security.
He told the court that Mhlanga and Muteiwa had facilitated the publication of the pressers, during which Geza allegedly made inflammatory remarks.
Detective Nyazamba said the statements transmitted had the potential to incite violence and encourage citizens to revolt against the Government.
The State alleges they used media equipment to livestream and post the content on various platforms, including the internet and social media.
Detective Nyazamba said Mhlanga had been in contact with Geza via X (formerly Twitter) calls, which, he noted, are difficult to intercept.
He also said Geza allegedly organised transport for Mhlanga and his camera crew to attend the press briefings at an undisclosed venue.
When the trial opened, both Mhlanga and Muteiwa pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Mhlanga, represented by lawyer Mr Chris Mhike, argued that the charges were baseless, asserting that he neither owns nor controls HStv, nor does he serve as a director at the media platform.
Mr Mhike said his client did not use any computer system to transmit the alleged messages. He said Mhlanga also does not have access to HStv’s broadcasting accounts.
Muteiwa, through her lawyer Mrs Beatrice Mtetwa, also denied the charges.
Mrs Mtetwa contended that the charge sheet was defective and failed to establish a recognisable offence under the law.
The prosecution alleges that during the pressers, Geza called for the removal of the Government, a message they argue had the potential to trigger unrest.
By broadcasting the events via HStv and YouTube, the State alleges, the accused violated public order laws.
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