After going into hiding for about a month, Zimbabwen war veteran Blessed Geza resurfaced this week, calling for unity during planned protests on March 31.

In a video that was posted on social media, Geza announced that he was not worried about the charges he was facing. He repeated what landed him trouble with the authorities, calling on President Emmerson Mnangagwa to step down for failing to end a moribund economy and for promoting corruption and nepotism.

“Zimbabwean family, it’s yours truly Blessed Geza, Bombshell. I am alive,” Geza said, adding that he was safe and healthy.

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Zimbabwe’s introduction of a new currency has not addressed the country’s enduring challenges.

Where is Blessings Geza hiding?

“[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.

The 82-year-old former liberation fighter did not disclose his location but was seen in military attire, reigniting rumors that he might be in a military barracks.

Geza, expelled from the ruling ZANU PF for alleged gross indiscipline and treasonous conduct, has recently been vocal, demanding that Mnangagwa step down. The journalist who interviewed him has been in jail for almost a month for allegedly publishing ‘inciting’ information.

Demands to free jailed reporter

“We will not be silenced while the country is being pillaged. We are worried also the arrest of journalist Blessed Mhlanga. We see this as an attempt to silence democratic voices,” Geza stated.

Geza called for the unconditional and immediate release of Mhlanga, warning the judiciary against being used to suppress people.

Government’s response to Geza’s uprising call

Zimbabwe’s Information Minister Jenfan Muswere urged the public to ignore Geza’s “delusional rumblings,” stating that the political fugitive is trying to cause disunity.

The opposition cautiously welcomed Geza’s contribution to the struggle, emphasizing the need for Mnangagwa to step aside for necessary reforms.

Geza wants Mnangagwa to step down and make way for Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, but political analysts say the situation is too early for comparison with the 2017 events.

Source: https://www.dw.com/en/zimbabwe-march-31-uprising-will-it-succeed/a-71995990?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf