Zimbabwean Opposition Leader Job Sikhala Appears in Pretoria Court Over Alleged Explosives

Zimbabwean Politician Job Sikhala Appears in Court After Pretoria Arrest

Pretoria saw a tense moment on Monday as Job Sikhala, the former Zimbabwean MP and outspoken opposition leader, appeared briefly in court following his arrest in South Africa on charges linked to explosives. Sikhala, 53, and his 78-year-old uncle, Alexander Ferrowst Thema, were both remanded in custody, with the case postponed to Thursday, 13 November 2025.

The arrests occurred after police reportedly stopped the pair on Kgosi Mampuru Street, where officers allegedly found 26 blasting cartridges and 15 connector cap fusers in their vehicle.

National Democratic Working Group Denies Ownership

Sikhala’s political party in Zimbabwe, the National Democratic Working Group (NDWG), quickly issued a statement calling the arrest “suspected foul play.” The party insists that the explosives do not belong to Sikhala, and confirmed their legal team is working to secure his defence.

“As the National Democratic Working Group, we stand unwaveringly beside our leader and reaffirm our commitment to defending him through all legal means available,” the statement read.

The group also appealed for the public to keep Sikhala in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult period, framing the arrest as politically charged.

A Controversial Political Figure

Sikhala’s detention comes less than a year after his release from Zimbabwean custody, where he had been arrested for allegedly inciting public violence. Human rights groups and opposition figures have long accused the Harare government of targeting him due to his vocal criticism of Zanu PF, corruption, and human rights abuses.

In South Africa, his arrest has stirred debate among Zimbabweans living in the diaspora. Many express concern about his legal treatment and the circumstances of the seizure, while others in Zimbabwe have accused him of criminal conduct, celebrating his Pretoria arrest as justice served.

Legal Proceedings and Public Reaction

Gauteng regional spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Lumka Mahanjana, confirmed the arrest and stated the two were remanded in custody pending further court appearances. The case is now set to continue later this week.

Social media and news platforms have been alight with reactions. Supporters highlight Sikhala’s history as a political prisoner and frame the arrest as another chapter in his struggle against political oppression. Critics, on the other hand, focus on the gravity of explosives possession charges, underscoring fears of potential criminal activity.

A High-Stakes Political and Legal Battle

For Sikhala, this arrest marks yet another legal and political crossroads. His vocal stance against Zimbabwe’s ruling party has made him a symbol for opposition resistance, but it has also drawn the scrutiny of law enforcement across borders.

Observers note that the South African legal system will now play a critical role in determining whether this is a legitimate criminal case or a politically sensitive incident with wider ramifications for regional politics.

As the court proceedings unfold, both supporters and critics will be watching closely, for some, Sikhala is a martyr of political freedom, while for others, he is a figure under serious legal suspicion.