ZNA tells Zimbabweans not to panic over army unit

ZNA Announces Routine Field Training in Harare Suburbs Amid Political Speculation
The Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) has confirmed that one of its units is conducting a routine field training exercise across several Harare suburbs from June 3 to June 6, 2025, amid growing public speculation over the timing and intent of the operation.

In a statement issued by ZNA Director of Public Relations, Colonel Hlengiwe Dube, the army assured residents that the training exercises, scheduled for areas including Glenview, Glen Norah, Kuwadzana, Dzivarasekwa, Mt Hampden, and Westgate, are part of regular military drills and pose no threat to public safety.

"The ZNA wishes to inform the general public that one of its units is conducting a field training exercise in Harare during the period 03 to 06 June 2025," said Col Dube. "The road to be used during the exercise is Solomon Mujuru, formerly known as Kirkman Road."

She emphasized that all activities will take place during daylight hours and will not disrupt normal civilian life. "The public is therefore requested not to panic as the training exercise is part of routine training by ZNA units," she added.

Despite the army's reassurances, the exercise has sparked speculation online and in opposition circles, particularly in light of recent public statements by exiled war veteran and government critic Blessed "Bombshell" Runesu Geza. Geza has repeatedly hinted in social media broadcasts that Zimbabweans should await a "signal" to rise up against President Emmerson Mnangagwa's administration, citing alleged corruption and economic mismanagement.

The army's preemptive clarification appears aimed at diffusing any political interpretations of the drill, which some had begun to link to potential civil unrest. Analysts suggest that the military's transparency may be a strategic move to avoid miscommunication and potential unrest during a politically charged atmosphere.

No incidents or disruptions have been reported in the affected suburbs since the exercise began. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and continue with their daily routines.

This latest development comes at a time of increased tension between the government and vocal diaspora figures, with critics accusing the Mnangagwa administration of economic mismanagement, authoritarianism, and failure to implement electoral reforms.