HARARE, May 4 (NewsDay Live) — The National Democratic Working Group (NDWG) has condemned a further postponement in the South African trial of its chairman, Job Sikhala, describing the delay as a “sustained injustice” and alleging political interference.
The matter, involving Sikhala and co-accused Alexander Thema, was heard at the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court on Monday and has been remanded to August 3, 2026. Authorities cited outstanding forensic evidence as the reason for the postponement.
However, the NDWG dismissed the explanation, arguing the repeated delays point to a pattern of obstruction.
“This latest postponement exposes a troubling pattern: a justice process that continues to drag on while the lives of the accused are placed on hold,” NDWG vice spokesperson Nontokozo Dube said in a statement.
Sikhala and Thema were arrested last year after South African authorities alleged explosives were discovered in their vehicle. Both have denied the charges, maintaining the evidence was planted.
The NDWG further questioned the timing of the postponement, linking it to recent regional diplomatic engagements and suggesting possible political influence over the judicial process.
The group described the case as an example of “weaponised state machinery” being used to target political opponents beyond Zimbabwe’s borders, adding that Sikhala’s continued stay in South Africa amounts to a deliberate effort to undermine opposition mobilisation.
The organisation called on the South African justice system to expedite the case without “fear or favour,” while urging the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the international community to ensure democratic principles are upheld.
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Despite the latest setback, the NDWG said Sikhala had expressed gratitude to supporters who attended the court proceedings in solidarity. The group urged its members to remain vigilant ahead of the next hearing in August, signalling plans to intensify peaceful mobilisation.
“An injustice to one is an injustice to all,” the statement said.
