Harare, Zimbabwe – Former Norton MP Temba Mliswa has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding journalist Blessed Mhlanga’s controversial speech at the Geneva Summit for Human Rights and Democracy, arguing that his remarks underscore a significant shift and improvement in Zimbabwe’s freedom of speech landscape.
Speaking exclusively, Mliswa said:
“I recently listened to Blessed Mhlanga’s speech and, while I may not endorse his perspective, I firmly believe it epitomizes the essential right to free speech that every individual is entitled to. The very circumstance that he can articulate such thoughts without fear of retribution stands as a testament to the progressive climate that President Mnangagwa has fostered. Such openness was a rarity in the past.”
He added:
“Human rights must be upheld; however, his freedom to express himself candidly indicates that Zimbabwe has ascended to a level of respect for such liberties. President Mnangagwa has demonstrated commendable forbearance, extending significant latitude to all individuals, including those who oppose his governance. This quality is indicative of a truly great leader, one who can embrace a spectrum of viewpoints without resorting to vindictiveness.”
Mliswa’s statements come amid the government’s threats to take action against Mhlanga under the Patriotic Act, following his public critique of human rights practices in Zimbabwe. Senator Advocate Sengezo Tshabangu, a prominent opposition leader, has also called for the cancellation of Mhlanga’s passport, arguing that his Geneva address painted the country in a negative light and could harm Zimbabwe’s diplomatic gains.
Mhlanga’s Geneva Address: The Facts
Blessed Mhlanga, head of news at Heart & Soul TV and host of the talk show FreeTalk, detailed harassment, legal intimidation, and restrictions he has faced in Zimbabwe. He highlighted his pre-trial detention in February 2025, which stemmed from reporting on opposition voices, including hosting the late Cde Bombshell Blessed Runesu Geza. Mhlanga spent more than two months in custody and was denied bail multiple times, his movements heavily restricted even after release.
He called for international engagement to safeguard human rights and prevent further erosion of democratic space, drawing attention to patterns of legal overreach used to silence independent media.
Government Response
Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services Minister Zhemu Soda responded sharply, labelling Mhlanga’s address as a “distorted narrative” and asserting that Zimbabwe’s legal frameworks, including Section 22A of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Amendment Act, are intended to defend national sovereignty. The government condemned calls for sanctions, claiming such measures would penalise ordinary Zimbabweans rather than address legitimate concerns.
A Broader Debate on Press Freedom
Mliswa frames the controversy as a reflection of Zimbabwe’s evolving environment for freedom of expression. He contends that the ability of journalists like Mhlanga to speak publicly, despite criticism or legal threats, demonstrates a notable improvement compared to past decades of restrictive governance. Mliswa said:
“The fact that Blessed can speak candidly on the international stage, without immediate retribution, signals a maturity in our democratic institutions. It is a moment to reflect on progress while remaining vigilant about ongoing challenges.”
Analysts agree that Mhlanga’s case illustrates the tension between national security, government oversight, and the need to respect fundamental liberties. Human rights organisations have consistently flagged such incidents as part of a broader trend of selective application of laws to suppress dissent, urging reforms to ensure a free and fair media environment.
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