Sikhala appeals for R100 000 to cover legal fees in South Africa

Prominent opposition politician Job Sikhala has issued an urgent appeal for R100 000 to cover legal fees for his ongoing court case in South Africa.

The funds are required as a deposit for his legal defence team ahead of the next stage of his trial, scheduled for February 3, 2026. Former Zimbabwean Education Minister and current Bulawayo Mayor, David Coltart, is facilitating the fundraising process and holds the banking details for prospective donors.

In a letter addressed to what he described as "men and women of conscience," Sikhala appealed for financial assistance, saying the case against him was politically motivated.

"The charges against me are baseless and this is shown by the bail conditions granted to me," Sikhala wrote. "If the South African authorities had any real concerns that I had engaged in such conduct, I would never have been released on such liberal bail conditions."

Sikhala was arrested in South Africa in November 2025 after police allegedly discovered explosives in a vehicle he was travelling in with his uncle. He was later released on R10 000 bail by the Pretoria Magistrate's Court on November 13, 2025.

According to Sikhala, his lawyers are now preparing for the continuation of the case and require an upfront payment to proceed.

"Our lawyers need a deposit of R100 000," he said, adding that Coltart was aware of the payment arrangements and could provide further details to those willing to assist.

The South African case follows Sikhala's release in January 2024 from nearly 600 days of pre-trial detention in Zimbabwe, where he had been facing charges of inciting public violence.

Sikhala has consistently maintained that his legal troubles, both in Zimbabwe and South Africa, are part of sustained political persecution linked to his opposition activities.