Petrol Bomb

The residence of Blessed Geza, a Zimbabwean war veteran and former secret service officer, was viciously attacked with petrol bombs on the night of 28 March 2025 in Sanyati. This alarming incident comes just days before the highly anticipated 31 March demonstrations, where Geza has emerged as a leading voice against President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s controversial bid for a third term. The attack follows an earlier assault on his property last week, when unknown assailants shattered its windows, raising fears of escalating political violence in the country.

A Pattern of Violence Ahead of Protests

The petrol bomb attack on Geza’s sprawling Sanyati home marks a dangerous escalation in Zimbabwe’s already tense political climate. Last week, the property suffered damage when its windows were smashed, an act now seen as a prelude to the more destructive assault on Friday night. Social media posts, including from prominent Zimbabwean journalist Hopewell Chin’ono, have highlighted the severity of the incident, with Chin’ono noting, “The home of Zimbabwean war veteran and former secret service officer Blessed Geza was petrol-bombed last night in Sanyati. The massive property was first damaged last week when windows were broken, and then petrol-bombed last night.”

Geza, a outspoken figure known for his fierce criticism of Mnangagwa, has become a symbol of resistance against the president’s alleged attempts to extend his rule beyond the constitutional limit of 2028. His role as a key organiser of the upcoming 31 March demonstrations has put him squarely in the spotlight—and, it seems, in the crosshairs of those opposed to his activism.

The Man at the Centre: Blessed Geza’s Political Stand

Blessed Geza, often called “Bombshell” for his fiery rhetoric, is no stranger to controversy. A liberation war veteran and once a member of Zimbabwe’s secret service, Geza has in recent years turned his focus to exposing corruption and challenging the ruling ZANU-PF party’s leadership. His vocal opposition to Mnangagwa’s third-term ambitions has earned him both support and enemies. Earlier this year, he was expelled from ZANU-PF after publicly demanding the president’s resignation, accusing him of betraying the ideals of the liberation struggle.

Geza’s campaign has gained momentum ahead of the 31 March protests, which he has described as an “uprising” rather than a mere demonstration. He has called on Zimbabweans to take to the streets to demand Mnangagwa’s exit, warning that the president’s continued rule threatens the nation’s future. This bold stance has made him a target, with the petrol bomb attack widely viewed as an attempt to silence him before the planned mass action.

ZANU-PF Power Struggle Fuels Unrest

The attack on Geza’s home comes amid a bitter power struggle within ZANU-PF, pitting Mnangagwa against his deputy, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga. The rift, which has deepened in recent months, stems from Mnangagwa’s apparent push to amend the constitution and extend his presidency beyond 2028, when his second term ends. Chiwenga, a former army general who played a pivotal role in the 2017 coup that ousted Robert Mugabe, is seen by many as Mnangagwa’s likely successor—and a potential rival in the succession battle.

Hopewell Chin’ono captured the stakes succinctly: “Geza is the face of the March 31 demonstrations against President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s attempt to get a third term. Zimbabwe’s ruling party, ZANUPF, is in the middle of a nasty power struggle between Mnangagwa and his deputy, General Chiwenga. The power struggle was triggered by Mnangagwa’s attempt to prolong his term of office beyond 2028.” Analysts suggest the attack on Geza could be linked to factions within ZANU-PF or its supporters seeking to suppress dissent and maintain Mnangagwa’s grip on power.

A Nation on Edge

As Zimbabwe braces for the 31 March demonstrations, the petrol bomb attack has heightened fears of further violence. Geza’s calls for an uprising have rattled the government, which has vowed to crush any protests. Earlier this week, Mnangagwa removed Lieutenant General Anselem Sanyatwe, a Chiwenga ally, from his post as army commander—a move interpreted as an effort to tighten control over the military ahead of potential unrest. Meanwhile, police have intensified their hunt for Geza, who faces charges of inciting violence and undermining the president’s authority.

Despite the threats, Geza remains defiant. In a recent video statement, he declared his safety and challenged Mnangagwa to confront him directly, saying the president “knows where I am.” His resilience has inspired many, but it has also underscored the risks faced by those opposing the regime.

Broader Implications for Zimbabwe

The targeting of Geza’s home is not an isolated incident but part of a broader pattern of political intimidation in Zimbabwe. Civil society groups and war veterans’ associations have condemned the attack, demanding an independent investigation. However, trust in state institutions remains low, with many doubting that justice will be served. The timing—just three days before the planned protests—suggests a calculated move to deter participation and send a chilling message to Mnangagwa’s critics.

The international community is also watching closely. Zimbabwe’s political instability, coupled with its dire economic situation—marked by soaring inflation and unemployment—has long drawn global concern. The outcome of the 31 March demonstrations could prove a turning point, either galvanising resistance or entrenching Mnangagwa’s rule.

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