Prominent Zimbabwean author Tsitsi Dangarembga has been found guilty of inciting violence while holding a banner calling for political reform.
The judge said the protest may have agitated others and caused a violation of the peace.
Dangarembga paid a fine of around $110 (£100) and was spared three months in prison.
She pleaded not guilty at the trial, which has been criticized as the latest sign of the government’s crackdown on dissidents.
Outside the courtroom, she told the BBC she was not surprised by her conviction.
In Zimbabwe, she said, “the spaces for free speech and media freedom are getting smaller and more criminalized,” she said, adding that she plans to appeal the verdict.
When President Emerson Mnangagwa came to power in 2017, he promised to introduce reforms after decades of repressive rule by his predecessor Robert Mugabe, but critics say little change. say no.
Dangarenbuga is one of Zimbabwe’s most famous writers. Her novel This Mournable Body was shortlisted for the 2020 Booker Prize.
Convicted along with her friend Julie Barnes.
Two years ago, they walked the streets of the capital Harare carrying placards calling for political reform and the release of two government critics.
The courtroom held its breath as the two women stood motionless as they received their sentences.
He was found guilty of inciting public violence and disturbing public order and morals.
The judge said they protested on public roads and the images were shared on social media, potentially provoking protests from others.
If he repeats the offense within the next five years, he will be sentenced to six months in prison.
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