Zimbabwean politician arrested in Pretoria for alleged possession of explosives

Mapaballo Borotho

Zimbabwean opposition leader Job Sikhala and his uncle appeared in the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court after being arrested for alleged possession of explosives.
Sikhala denied the charges, claiming his arrest was a political setup by Zanu-PF. Their case was postponed to 13 November for a formal bail hearing, with both men remaining in custody.

Zanu-PF’s biggest opposition figure, Job Sikhala, and his uncle, Alexander Ferrowst Thema, appeared before the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 10 November, after being found in possession of explosives.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the 53-year-old Sikhala and his 78-year-old uncle were stopped by police while driving along Kgosi Mampuru Street in Pretoria.

Upon searching their vehicle, police discovered 26 units of blasting cartridges and 15 units of connector cap fuses.

During court proceedings, Sikhala’s lawyer, Eric Mabuza, said his client denied any involvement, alleging foul play. He explained that the explosives were found after Sikhala had dinner with his uncle, who was also arrested.

Mabuza further stated that Sikhala had travelled to South Africa for medical treatment and not to engage in any criminal activity.

Sikhala has since claimed that his arrest was a political set-up orchestrated by Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu-PF.

The Pretoria Magistrates’ Court postponed the matter to Thursday, 13 November 2025 for a formal bail application. In the meantime, the pair will remain in custody.