Authorities in Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe have detained a 22-year-old man, Blessed Mhembere, amid allegations of inciting a movement to overthrow President Emmerson Mnangagwa. The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) released a statement on Monday confirming the charges against Mhembere, which include subverting a constitutional government.
Mhembere, who is soon to be presented in court, reportedly traversed Makoni Shopping Centre’s bus terminus in Chitungwiza, vociferously urging the removal of President Mnangagwa and his Zanu PF party from power. His bold exhortations, according to reports, included challenges to armed individuals to join his cause.
The charges against Mhembere are severe, as they equate to treason under Zimbabwean law. Specifically, he is accused of violating section 22(2)(A) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, which pertains to subverting a constitutional government, and section 187, related to incitement to subvert a constitutional government. A conviction on these charges could lead to a prison sentence of up to 20 years.
Legal representation for Mhembere is being provided by attorney Freddy Masarirevhu. The case has attracted significant attention, highlighting ongoing tensions and challenges in Zimbabwe’s political landscape.
