Police hunt for HStv journalist Blessed Mhlanga

Police are searching for local journalist Blessed Mhlanga, a reporter for Heart & Soul, an online broadcasting platform owned by Trevor Ncube's Alpha Media Holdings, following a series of hard-hitting interviews with war veterans. His discussions, particularly with fellow journalist and war veteran Blessed Geza, have drawn sharp reactions from authorities.

During Mhlanga's recent interviews, Geza fiercely criticized President Emmerson Mnangagwa, asserting that he had failed to govern effectively and must step down immediately. The war veterans, an influential political force in Zimbabwe, have been vocal in their opposition to Mnangagwa's perceived attempts to secure a third term under the "Vision 2030" mantra.

According to reports, three armed individuals visited Mhlanga's workplace in Graniteside, Harare, yesterday in search of him. However, he was not present at the time. Shortly afterward, he received a call from a law and order officer instructing him to report to the police.

Mhlanga took to social media to express his concern, stating:

"It's not a laughing matter at all. Three persons armed with pistols came to my office this morning looking for me. They did not say why they needed me. Then minutes later, I got a call inviting me to Law and Order. I will be presenting myself to the police with my lawyers tomorrow."

Authorities are also reportedly looking for Geza, and it appears they may want Mhlanga to provide information leading to his arrest. This development raises critical ethical questions about journalistic independence and the role of reporters in police investigations.

Journalism and Law Enforcement: Where Should the Line Be Drawn?

The media plays a crucial role as the Fourth Estate, acting as a watchdog over the executive, legislature, and judiciary. While journalists are not above the law, professional ethics dictate that they should not be used as extensions of law enforcement agencies. Press freedom and source protection are fundamental pillars of journalism, ensuring that reporters can hold those in power accountable without fear of coercion.

Under professional norms, journalists are not obliged to act as informants for the police, as doing so could compromise their integrity, endanger their sources, and ultimately undermine press freedom. However, in rare cases—such as in matters involving national security threats or dangerous criminals—cooperation with authorities may be considered. Even then, such decisions must be made carefully to avoid eroding the trust that journalists rely on to perform their duties.

The unfolding situation with Mhlanga and Geza highlights broader concerns about press freedom in Zimbabwe. As this case develops, media stakeholders, civil society, and human rights defenders will be closely monitoring how authorities handle the matter and whether Mhlanga's rights as a journalist will be upheld.

For now, all eyes remain on the journalist's scheduled appearance at the police station, as the nation waits to see how this critical test of press freedom and law enforcement balance will unfold.