Blessed Geza, a Zimbabwean war veteran, has called for national protests on March 31 demanding President Mnangagwa’s resignation, indicating his uprising is backed by prominent figures and posing potential risks of civil unrest. Authorities are watching closely, fearing parallels to past coups.
In Harare, Blessed Geza, a prominent war veteran, called for nationwide protests scheduled for March 31, 2024, demanding the resignation of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. In a recent half-hour address on his X (Twitter) account, Geza, adorned in military attire, described the action as an “uprising” rather than a protest, urging citizens to flood the streets to remove Mnangagwa from power.
Geza has encouraged private citizens to support demonstrators with transportation for the protests. He issued a warning to Police Commissioner General Stephen Mutamba against interfering with the events, asserting that these protests aim to alleviate economic hardships endured by numerous Zimbabweans due to the government’s mismanagement. He emphasized that demonstrators should not be harmed, calling the upcoming demonstrations an “unstoppable wave.”
The former combatant further demanded that Mnangagwa relinquish power peacefully. He openly supported Vice President Constantino Chiwenga’s presidential ambitions, claiming that notable opposition figures like Nelson Chamisa and Tendai Biti also favor Chiwenga’s leadership.
Geza had been in hiding for over a month after publicly criticizing Mnangagwa’s attempt to extend his rule beyond 2028. Authorities are reportedly eager to arrest Geza for allegedly inciting violence and undermining the president. His return, coupled with the military garb, has incited concerns of a potential coup akin to the 2017 ousting of former President Robert Mugabe.
Speculation surrounds Geza’s reemergence, with many believing he may have support from Vice President Chiwenga or other individuals aiming to disrupt Mnangagwa’s pursuit of a third term. Chiwenga, however, has refrained from making any public comments on his own presidential intentions or on the ongoing situation involving Geza and Mnangagwa’s administration.
Blessed Geza’s call for protests on March 31 signifies mounting tensions regarding President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s leadership in Zimbabwe. His return, marked by military apparel and strong rhetoric, raises fears of unrest and potential coup-like activities. The endorsement of Vice President Chiwenga’s presidential aspirations further complicates the political landscape, highlighting a possible shift in support within Zimbabwe’s power dynamics.
Original Source: www.zimlive.com
