Journalist Madzikatidze denied bail

Journalist Gideon Madzikatidze was denied bail on 2 March 2026 and remanded in custody until 17 March 2026. 

Harare magistrate Ruth Moyo denied Madzikatidze bail on the grounds that he faces a serious offence and may abscond if granted bail. The magistrate said the accused was a flight risk and may not stand trial if released on bail.

background

Madzikatidze is  facing two charges:

• Contravening Section 7 (1) as read with subsection 4 (b) of the Broadcasting Services Act [Chapter 12:06] (providing a broadcasting service without a licence).
• Cyberbullying is defined in Section 164B of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23].

The State alleges that between 15 and 16 December 2025, the accused unlawfully “did” internet broadcasting services through a Bulawayo24 news website … without a broadcasting licence.

On the second count, it is alleged that between 15 and 16 December 2025, Madzikatidze unlawfully and intentionally, by means of a computer or information system, posted on electronic media a data message stating that the Geo Pomona boss bribes journalists and editors to evade scrutiny. 

The State alleges the intent was to intimidate, harass, bully, cause substantial emotional distress, and degrade and humiliate the Geo-Pomona Waste Management Company and its chief executive officer.