'Bombshell' Geza warns Zimbabwe police chief

War veteran leader Blessing "Bombshell" Geza has issued a stern warning to Police Commissioner General Stephen Mutamba, cautioning against the use of violence or arrests against Zimbabweans exercising their democratic right to demonstrate.

In an interview with HSTV, Geza declared that the war veterans would hold the police accountable if they arrested or shot anyone for protesting. He emphasized that the right to demonstrate is a constitutional right that Zimbabweans fought for during the liberation struggle.

"No one should even be arrested for demonstrating. If we hear there is anyone arrested for the enjoyment of his/her constitutional rights, you will see it. We will deal with you. If we also hear that there is anybody who has been shot for his/her constitutional rights - the same rights which thousands sacrificed their lives for…" said Geza.

His remarks come as war veterans have been vocal in their calls for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to step down, citing rampant corruption and poor governance in the country.

Geza highlighted the sacrifices made during Zimbabwe's liberation struggle, stating it was ironic that citizens who fought for freedom were now being denied the right to express themselves through peaceful protests.

"It's unacceptable that Zimbabweans fought and won the right to demonstrate, only for the police to shoot and kill people for exercising that very right," he added.

Geza also expressed concern over the increasing number of roadblocks across Zimbabwe, accusing the police of turning the country into a "police state." He urged Commissioner Mutamba not to allow the force to be used as a tool of political repression.

"Don't be used by anybody on the basis of your relationship or nepotism. I want to warn members of the security forces, in particular the Police," Geza stated.

He advised the police chief against becoming "excitable" and cautioned against actions that would escalate tensions in the country.

The remarks by the war veteran leader reflect growing frustration among citizens and liberation war veterans with the current administration. Calls for reforms and accountability have been mounting, with corruption and economic challenges dominating the discourse.

As the country faces continued unrest, the warnings by Geza underline the fragile relationship between Zimbabwe's security forces, its leadership, and its people. The war veterans, a powerful constituency in Zimbabwean politics, have historically played a significant role in shaping the nation's direction, and their criticism could signal deeper divisions within the ruling establishment.