Opposition politician Job Sikhala was released from Chikurubi Maximum Prison on Tuesday night after being given a fully suspended jail term for inciting public violence by Harare magistrate Tafadzwa Miti.
Sikhala revealed that he was informed of his immediate release during the night, contrary to the initial arrangement for his release on Wednesday morning.
According to Sikhala, he was “kicked out” of the prison and left by the roadside. He expressed concerns about possible plans by state agents to abduct him. Sikhala had been in detention for over a year and a half following his arrest for inciting public violence in Nyatsime.
Prosecutors alleged that Sikhala had encouraged the public to seek revenge for the murder of Citizens Coalition for Change activist Moreblessing Ali, who was killed by a Zanu PF supporter named Pius Jamba.
Following his release, Sikhala stated that he needs time to strategize and plan his next steps.
