Zimbabwe’s Information Minister Jenfan Muswere has labelled a former Zanu PF colleague, Blessed Geza, a “terrorist” and an “enemy of progress” after Geza called for a nationwide shutdown on 22 and 23 April to demand the resignation of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Speaking at a press conference in Harare on Sunday, Muswere urged Zimbabweans to reject Geza’s appeal, accusing him of using “cyber terrorism” to undermine the country’s development and tarnish its image. He called for unity and dismissed Geza as a purveyor of falsehoods intent on reversing the gains of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle.
“We must remain united against enemies of progress,” Muswere said. “Zimbabweans should use the internet for development, not heed the calls of unproductive charlatans.”
Geza, a former combatant who has been wanted by police since February, made the shutdown call in a video address from an undisclosed location on Saturday night. Wearing military attire, he urged citizens to stay at home, close shops and industries, and halt public transport to send a “strong message” to Mnangagwa’s government.
“On Tuesday and Wednesday, everyone must stay home. We must shut down Zimbabwe completely,” Geza said. He also claimed Mnangagwa’s leadership was nearing its end and promised the release of 95 protesters arrested during a 31 March demonstration in Harare, alongside journalist Blessed Mhlanga of Heart and Soul Television and Radio.
The 31 March protest, also led by Geza, failed to gain widespread support, resulting in limited disruptions and a few isolated demonstrations in the capital. Despite this, Geza has continued to use social media to rally opposition to Mnangagwa’s rule.
Addressing supporters at Zimbabwe’s 45th Independence Day celebrations in Gokwe on Friday, President Mnangagwa indirectly referenced Geza, calling on citizens to ignore social media provocations. Mnangagwa’s administration has faced growing criticism over economic challenges and governance issues.
The government’s sharp rebuke of Geza underscores rising tensions in Zimbabwe as calls for civil disobedience test the resilience of Mnangagwa’s leadership.
