Zimbabwe dismisses Sikhala's claims as 'attention-seeking'

The Government has dismissed allegations made by opposition politician Job Sikhala following his arrest in South Africa, describing his remarks about Zimbabwe's Judiciary as attempts to gain political sympathy and revive his political relevance.

Sikhala was arrested in Pretoria alongside his uncle, Alexander Thema, after police reportedly found 26 blasting cartridges and 15 capped fuse connectors in his vehicle. He spent approximately a week in custody before being granted R10 000 bail last Thursday. His case is expected back in court in February next year.

Speaking briefly to the media after securing bail, Sikhala said his lawyers had advised him not to comment on the case, but added that he believed South Africa had an "independent judiciary" and that "here there are no feja feja things," a remark widely interpreted as a dig at Zimbabwe's own judicial system.

The comments prompted a response from Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere, who said the Government would not be drawn into what he characterised as Sikhala's political theatrics. He stressed that matters before South African courts remained sub judice and that Zimbabwe's Judiciary continued to operate independently and in line with the rule of law.

In an interview with ZBC News, Dr Muswere accused Sikhala of using "melodrama" to regain political traction, claiming the opposition figure had been sidelined by his colleagues and was seeking attention through public statements and fundraising activities connected to his new political outfit and book. He described Sikhala's recent public messaging as part of a broader effort to cultivate a heroic persona, although he characterised those efforts as exaggerated and misleading. Dr Muswere's remarks included pointed personal criticism of Sikhala, which he linked to what he said were the politician's attempts to create a narrative of persecution for political gain.

Sikhala has in recent months alleged that he is a target of political machinations, issuing a series of statements portraying himself as a victim of systematic harassment. Dr Muswere rejected those claims, saying they lacked evidence and were designed to provoke public emotion.

He reiterated that Zimbabwe's state institutions operate professionally and constitutionally, warning the public to be cautious of narratives crafted to attract political sympathy. "Zimbabwe's institutions of governance stand firm, and misleading theatrics will not replace truth," he said.