Online Reporter
Zvikomborero Parafini
The Editor of the Zimbabwe Independent, Faith Zaba, who faces charges of undermining the authority of the President, has been remanded in custody and is expected to return to court today.
The State successfully sought a postponement pending bail considerations.
Yesterday, Zaba, who was arrested on Tuesday, appeared before Harare Magistrate Mr Vakai Chikwekwe and was not required to enter a plea.
Prosecutors indicated they would verify documents from Zaba’s lawyers stating she was unwell before her arrest. If deemed authentic, the State may consider granting her bail.
The State alleges that on June 27, 2025, Zaba, in her capacity as Editor, published an article titled “When You Become a Mafia State” in the Zimbabwe Independent. The article was allegedly aimed at undermining the authority of President Mnangagwa.
It claimed that as Zimbabwe’s Chairmanship of SADC comes to an end, little of value has been accomplished.
It also alleged that Zimbabwe was involved in manipulating elections in Mozambique, Botswana and Namibia.
The article included a photograph of President Mnangagwa alongside Mozambican President Daniel Chapo. Prosecutors contend the article’s claims are materially false and designed to incite hostility among citizens towards the President.
Zaba’s lawyer, Chris Mhike, expressed disappointment that she would spend another night in custody, highlighting her poor health and previous need for bed rest.
