Bulawayo24 journalist charged with broadcasting and cyber‑bullying offences

A Bulawayo24 freelance journalist, Gideon Madzikatidze (36), has appeared before the Harare Magistrates' Court facing two charges relating to an article he published on the Bulawayo24 News website in December 2025.

According to court documents, Madzikatidze is charged with contravening section 7(1) of the Broadcasting Services Act, which prohibits broadcasting without a licence. The State alleges that between 15 and 16 December 2025, he "unlawfully did internet‑based broadcasting services" through a Bulawayo24 News URL.

He is also charged with cyber‑bullying as defined under section 164B of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act. The State alleges that the article titled "Geo‑Pomona Boss Bribes Journalists, Editors To Evade Scrutiny" was intended to "intimidate, harass, bully and cause substantial emotional distress" to Geo‑Pomona Waste Management Company and its Chief Executive Officer.

The court papers state that the complainants are the State (Count One) and Geo‑Pomona Waste Management, represented by Dorothea Moyo (Count Two).

The full article referenced in the charges is attached to the court record as Annexure A.

Madzikatidze is represented by legal counsel, and proceedings are ongoing.

Bulawayo24 will continue to follow the case.