Sikhala’s camp defiant

The National Democratic Working Group (NDWG) has affirmed that it will press ahead with its political agenda despite the ongoing court proceedings involving its leader, Job Sikhala. Sikhala was granted bail this week by a South African magistrates’ court after being arrested when police discovered 26 blasting cartridges and 15 capped fuse connectors in the vehicle he was driving. His 78-year-old uncle, Alexander Thema, who was traveling with him, was also detained.

At a press briefing in Harare, NDWG acting chairman and chief facilitator Wurayayi Zembe confirmed the bail ruling and noted that Sikhala is expected to return to court on 3 February 2026. Zembe reassured supporters that Sikhala remains in good spirits and has temporarily handed over his duties.

“We want to assure the citizens of Zimbabwe that our Chairman and Chief Facilitator is in high spirits, and he has appointed me to act until he returns to office after taking a short rest,” Zembe said.

Zimbabwean photography workshopsDismissing the charges as fabricated, Zembe alleged that Sikhala and his uncle narrowly survived a potential assassination attempt, asserting that the explosives could have detonated while Sikhala was inside the vehicle. He also expressed confidence in the South African judiciary, stating that the courts would handle the matter “without fear or favour.”

The NDWG accused the ruling Zanu-PF party of targeting Sikhala, claiming the party seeks his political downfall, and called on authorities to stop “attacking and dehumanising” opposition figures.

Despite the legal challenges, Zembe confirmed the NDWG’s commitment to its reform agenda, including strengthening national structures ahead of the People’s Democratic Convention and collaborating with civic groups to safeguard the constitution. He emphasized that the organisation opposes any changes to the election cycle, rejecting proposals to “abolish periodic national general elections” as outlined in Zanu-PF’s 2030 agenda.

He concluded by urging Zimbabweans to remain vigilant: “We urge citizens to stay focused and defend our fundamental democratic rights.”