War Veterans’ Bid to Oust Mnangagwa Turns Ugly: Heavily Armed Gunmen Hunt for Journalist Blessed Mhlanga as Cde Bombshell Geza Flees

Harare – The escalating tensions surrounding a faction of war veterans’ efforts to remove President Emmerson Mnangagwa from power have taken a sinister turn, with journalist Blessed Mhlanga, who works for Heart & Soul online broadcasting platform, now fearing for his safety after a visit from armed men. Meanwhile, firebrand war veteran Cde Blessed Runesu Geza, a key figure in the anti-Mnangagwa campaign, has reportedly fled the country to evade imminent arrest.

Mhlanga, known for his incisive interviews, particularly his recent conversations with Geza, has found himself caught in the crosshairs after Geza fiercely criticised President Mnangagwa, arguing that he has “dismally failed to govern.” These interviews, which also touched upon the war veterans’ opposition to Mnangagwa’s alleged third term campaign under the “2030 mantra,” appear to have rattled authorities.

The journalist revealed that three individuals armed with pistols visited his offices in Graniteside, Harare, on Monday morning, seeking him out. “It’s not a laughing matter at all,” Mhlanga posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). “Three persons armed with pistols came to my office this morning looking for me. They did not say why they needed me. Then minutes later, I got a call inviting me to Law and Order. I will be presenting myself to the police with my lawyers tomorrow.”

This marks the second time in two weeks that Mhlanga has been summoned by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP). Earlier this month, he was called to the Harare Central Police Station, accompanied by Misa Zimbabwe’s external legal counsel Chris Mhike. Astonishingly, police then claimed they only wanted to establish the status of Mhlanga’s very old case against Terrence Mukupe, Zimbabwe’s former deputy finance minister.

Mhike explained that the case dates back to May 2018, when Mukupe allegedly assaulted Mhlanga during a live political debate and confiscated a phone belonging to Mhlanga’s wife. However, both criminal and civil actions were initiated, with the civil case resolved in June 2018 and the criminal charges being dropped through mutual agreement shortly after. Mhike emphasized that the police had been informed of the termination of these proceedings, leaving the rationale for Mhlanga’s recent summons unclear.

The timing of these events has raised concerns that authorities are attempting to pressure Mhlanga to reveal his sources, particularly regarding Geza’s whereabouts. Police are reportedly looking for Geza and apparently want Mhlanga to be their source of information to arrest him.

The situation raises critical questions about the role of journalists and their relationship with law enforcement. Should journalists compromise their professional position and credibility by taking information to the police? The consensus within the profession is a resounding “NO.” A clear line should be drawn between journalism and police activities – journalists are not an extension of law enforcement agents, otherwise sources will dry up and this can damage the profession.

Meanwhile, Geza, who has been making headlines for publicly criticizing the President, now faces multiple criminal charges. Among them are four counts of theft, as outlined in Section 113 of the Criminal Law Codification and Reform Act, Chapter 9:23. Additionally, he has been charged with undermining presidential authority under Section 33 (2) (a) (ii) of the Criminal Law Codification and Reform Act, Chapter 9:23. Furthermore, he is accused of inciting public violence, which is in violation of Section 187 of the same legal framework.

Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the national police spokesperson, has issued a stern warning that anyone found harbouring Geza or assisting him in evading police questioning will be equally liable for arrest and prosecution. “The Zimbabwe Republic Police reiterates that anyone who is harbouring the suspect or assisting him to evade police questioning will be equally liable for arrest and subsequent prosecution,” Nyathi said.

Geza has gained prominence this year after launching a campaign against Mnangagwa’s perceived bid to stay in power beyond 2028, when the President’s two-term limit expires. Geza is advocating for Vice President Chiwenga to take over the reins. Some observers view Geza’s prosecution as victimisation of a man who has bravely challenged Mnangagwa’s unpopular attempts to remain in office.

In addition to his criminal charges, Geza is also entangled in a civil dispute over a US$1.5 million transaction to purchase Harare Safari Lodge, a prime property overlooking Lake Chivero.

The unfolding events highlight the increasingly fraught political landscape in Zimbabwe, with the state seemingly cracking down on dissent and attempting to stifle critical voices.