By A Correspondent| A cross-section of Zimbabweans has expressed mixed reactions to the planned protests led by former liberation war fighter and ex-Zanu PF Central Committee member, Blessed Geza, also known as “Bombshell”, aimed at removing President Emmerson Mnangagwa from power.
Geza, who has previously voiced support in the succession debate for Vice – President Constantine Chiwenga, has announced nationwide demonstrations scheduled for 31 March 2025, urging citizens to take part in efforts to oust the Mnangagwa administration, which he accuses of corruption and economic mismanagement.
However, vocal government critic, Namatai Kwekweza, dismissed Geza’s initiative as a factional push within Zanu PF that does not serve the interests of ordinary citizens.
“Geza and his crowd have a constitutional right to demonstrate. They are free to do so tomorrow! It must be clear that while many people in Zimbabwe agree that the constitution must be upheld and ED must not have a 3rd term which violates the constitution, saying Geza represents the interests of Zimbabweans is delusional,” said Kwekweza.
Activist, Idea Mambanda, echoed similar sentiments, referencing the November 2017 protests that led to the resignation of former President Robert Mugabe. Mambanda warned that Zanu PF factions often manipulate citizens and opposition supporters in their internal battles.
“Opposition supporters and ordinary citizens should reject being used again by Zanu PF factions, 2017 should teach us that we have no business in party fights,” said Mambanda. He urged the public to let Geza confront Mnangagwa using Zanu PF structures, warning that citizens could be discarded once the power struggle ends.
However, Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) Secretary General, Obert Masaraure, commended Geza for reigniting the spirit of protest among Zimbabweans, despite the state’s long-standing repression.
“We salute those who continue to make sacrifices for the liberation of our people. Reviving the protest culture was always going to be extremely difficult. Against all odds, Zimbabweans today found ways of defying authorities. Citizens should collectively build on this momentum,” said Masaraure.
Meanwhile, United States-based former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) member, Primrose Moyo, 30, argued that the opposition should seize the opportunity presented by Zanu PF’s internal conflicts.
“The opposition should be interested in these fights, a united Zanu PF will be too difficult to dislodge. Geza has presented a golden opportunity for the opposition to help destroy Zanu PF and increase chances for the opposition to win elections,” she said.
“Zimbabweans should flock the streets on 31 March and help push Mnangagwa out. There is a chance for them to bargain higher based on the November 2017 experience where they were eventually told that this was a Zanu PF internal matter,” added Moyo.