Kovach and the fellows sent letters of their own to Mugabe over a week ago. Now they are spreading news of their colleague's case to papers around the globe and hoping the media attention will guarantee a fairer trial.

"This is just to let the actors in the trial understand that there is international attention in this case," Kovach said. "That's all we can do at this point."

There will be international observers in the courtroom--many at the request of the foundation and many former Nieman fellows.

For example, Jorrilyn Eddings, who was a Nieman in 1985, will travel from South Africa on behalf of the Freedom Forum, a human rights group, to sit in on the trial.

Kovach called these observers "powerful tools."

Last week Kovach traveled to New York in an attempt to meet with Mugabe, who was at the United Nations. But Mugabe made his visit ahead of schedule, thwarting Kovach's attempt.

Carol Eisenberg, a Nieman fellow and reporter with Newsday, said the fellows will keep in contact with Chavunduka.

"It is not only an important press freedom case," she said. "All of us appreciate the courage that Mark has shown under severe duress."