Trial date set for Geza-linked war vets over anti-Mnangagwa march

The trial of 10 war veterans accused of participating in an unsanctioned "One Million Men March" against Emmerson Mnangagwa has been scheduled for April 30 this year.

The group - Rose Chirenje, Nyarai Chigudu, Kenesia Jera, Edward Mandikutse, Dexter Jena, Hazvinei Machingura, Stephen Chagwiza, Jacob Masaraure, Mapengo Mapengo and Joephrey Chigwerewe - appeared before Harare magistrate Tapiwa Kuhudzai.

The ex-combatants were arrested in October last year and are facing charges of participating in an unlawful public gathering allegedly intended to incite violence. They were recently released after spending several months in remand prison.

According to the State, the accused took part in the demonstration on October 17, 2025, which authorities say was organised by the late Blessed Geza, who reportedly died in South Africa earlier this year.

Prosecutors allege the group conspired to incite members of the public to join the march, during which President Mnangagwa was accused of associating with criminal elements.

The court heard that the war veterans allegedly failed to notify the police of the planned gathering, as required by law, before assembling near Africa Unity Square at the corner of George Silundika Avenue and Sam Nujoma Street in Harare.

Detectives from the CID Law and Order unit reportedly received intelligence about the gathering, leading to the arrest of the group. Some of the accused were allegedly found hiding in a vehicle before being taken into custody.

During investigations, the court heard that the war veterans indicated they had been transported from Marondera through organised means, although they could not provide further details.

The matter is set to proceed to trial at the end of April.