KEY POINTS
- Police are searching for Geza over multiple criminal charges.
- The war veteran has called for Mnangagwa’s resignation and protests.
- Authorities warn against assisting Geza in evading arrest.
Zimbabwean police have launched a manhunt for Blessed Runesu Geza, a vocal war veteran and critic of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, over charges that include theft, incitement of public violence, and undermining the president’s authority.
Known for his sharp criticism of the ruling Zanu-PF party’s governance, Geza has been at the center of internal party tensions, openly opposing Mnangagwa’s 2030 agenda.
His public calls for the president’s resignation, citing corruption and nepotism, have put him at odds with the authorities.
According to a statement by police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi, Geza is wanted for allegedly stealing and disposing of three vehicles without consent, along with making statements that insult and undermine the president.
Authorities have warned that anyone assisting Geza in evading arrest will also face prosecution.
Political tensions rise over term extension fears
The charges against Geza come at a time of increasing tensions within Zanu-PF, as factions battle over Mnangagwa’s potential bid to extend his presidency beyond the constitutional limit.
During multiple press conferences, Geza and fellow war veterans have accused Mnangagwa of plotting to hold onto power, despite his public commitment to step down in 2028.
In addition to criticizing the president, Geza has also taken aim at First Lady Auxilia Mnangagwa, accusing her of misusing state resources on unnecessary national tours.
Constitutional experts, including Professor Lovemore Madhuku, have emphasized that extending Mnangagwa’s presidency would be legally impossible, yet suspicions remain among critics who believe the president is deliberately silent on the matter while his allies push for a term extension.
Geza calls for national protests
In his latest press conference, Geza urged Zimbabweans to prepare for nationwide demonstrations demanding Mnangagwa’s resignation.
“We implore you to resign peacefully,” he said. “If you don’t resign in peace, people will exercise their constitutional right to remove you from office.”
According to New Zimbabwe, he also warned police officers against using force on protesters, stating that any brutality would not go unnoticed by the public.
The police organization maintains firm opposition to all attempts.
Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that Geza stands accused of multiple serious offenses including public violence incitement, stating that authorities will not permit destabilizing attempts on the nation.
