The most sought-after political escapee in Zimbabwe has sparked controversy by encouraging citizens to revolt against President Mnangagwa at the close of this month. In response, the governing ZANU PF party has declared that no demonstrations will be tolerated.
Following a period of concealment lasting roughly a month, Zimbabwean war veteran Blessed Geza emerged again this week, urging for solidarity during the scheduled demonstrations set for March 31.
In a video shared on social media, Geza stated that he wasn’t concerned about the charges against him. He reiterated what had caused his conflict with law enforcement, urging President Emmerson Mnangagwa to resign due to their inability to revitalize a stagnant economy and for fostering corruption and favoritism.
"Zimbabwean family, this is none other than Blessed Geza, known as Bombshell. I'm still here." Geza stated, assuring them that he was both safe and well.
Where can we find Blessings Geza?
"[President] Mnangagwa knows where I am. He is just a coward to approach me, but he knows exactly where I am. I am in the middle of people, being protected by people because I stand for people's wishes," he declared.
Despite being an 82-year-old ex-liberation combatant, he chose not to reveal his whereabouts. Nevertheless, wearing military attire along with another jacket placed on his seat revived speculations that he might be at a military base.
Recently, Geza, whom the governing ZANU PF party ousted due to allegations of severe misconduct and suspected treacherous behavior, has gained significant attention in politics. He has publicly called for Mnangagwa’s resignation. This demand was expressed during an interview featured in a podcast hosted by one of the nation's private media outlets. The journalist who spoke with him has been behind bars for nearly a month now. For supposedly sharing 'provocative' content.
Calls for the release of the imprisoned journalist
"We won't be quieted down while The nation is being plundered. We are concerned about the arrest of journalist Blessed Mhlanga as well. This seems like an effort to suppress those who speak out for democracy," said Geza.
"We demand the immediate and unconditional release of Mhlanga. Detaining journalists who are carrying out their duties goes against the principles of the liberation struggle. Let us warn you, we've been monitoring your actions—we’ve seen this happening for far too long. Do not allow yourselves to be instruments of suppression by Emmerson [Mnangagwa]," he went on, blending English with his mother tongue, Shona.
Government's response to Geza's uprising call
Zimbabwe’s Information Minister Jenfan Muswere urged citizens to disregard Geza's "unfounded claims,” stating that the political refugee aims to instigate discord within both the governing Zanu PF party and the nation as a whole by advocating for anti-government demonstrations on March 31.
"Any form of violent protest will never come to fruition," Muswere stated to journalists. He characterized Geza and his group as separatists and splitters, and cautioned that none of their endeavors would succeed.
He is a wanted man who has evaded justice, and it won’t take much longer for his incendiary comments to be addressed. This person claims to represent war veterans from the liberation movement but acts solely out of personal interest. According to Muswere, these tirades amount to mere delusions. Furthermore, he mentioned that authorities are closely monitoring all activities and stand prepared to handle individuals trying to instill despair across the nation’s territory.
Opposition welcomes Geza's contribution
Promise Mkwanazi, the spokesperson for Zimbabwe's primary opposition party, the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), responded positively yet guardedly to Geza’s involvement in the ‘fight.’ “Although we appreciate his participation, it should be noted that this battle has been continuous,” stated Mkwanazi. “Geza and associates are merely entering into a fight that has persisted from the beginning; one where we assert that Mr. Mnangagwa remains and will always remain illegitimate.”
True representation of the people’s will leading to his tenure has never existed, hence our ongoing efforts to encourage him to vacate his position so that Zimbabwe can implement essential changes. If Geza and his group wish to join us, they are more than welcome.
Geza's choice for president
Geza demands that Mnangagwa relinquish his position right away and create an opening for Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, a previous military leader rumored to have orchestrated the November 2017 coup that led to Robert Mugabe’s resignation.
In 2017, the opposition united with the governing Zanu PF party to demonstrate against Mugabe. Nevertheless, Harare-based independent political analyst Elton Ziki states that the situation has not escalated to such an extent.
"it's premature to establish the trends for a potential 2017 situation," ziki stated to inspirations digital.
"Firstly, we do not possess any resource or claim that addresses this issue. Consequently, without an opposing force in place, we find ourselves without a leader. After organizing protests, then what? Who will lead these demonstrations? And more importantly, which way will Zimbabwe proceed?" Ziki wondered.
Is Zimbabwe prepared for yet another 'palace coup'?
"I don’t anticipate a situation where people would wish to venture into unknown or unexpected territories. Certainly, personal feelings of discontent must be put to the test. Ultimately, would anyone choose to protest knowing they might end up in an uncertain void?” Ziki stated.
Lloyd Dumba of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) informed INSPIRATIONS DIGITAL that Geza is addressing controversial topics that require attention in Zimbabwe. However, he states that his party will not engage in what they see as another "palace coup."
The foundation of our stance is not based on a factional conflict. We're focused on the citizens of Zimbabwe; we simply wish for elections to occur at the appropriate times," Dumba stated emphatically, emphasizing that they prefer to remain spectators from the sidelines as events progress.
"What we want is overall change. We want to see the whole ZANU PF removed, from Emmerson Mnangagwa to the last branch. And then seek real transformation, that is why MDC was formed—we are not after succession wars," Dumba told INSPIRATIONS DIGITAL.
Certain members of ZANU PF are advocating for Mnangagwa to remain in power past his two consecutive five-year terms.
Edited by: Chrispin Mwakideu
Author: Columbus Mavhunga (based in Harare)
0 Comments