A Nation Watches as Fallen War Veteran Geza Returns Amid Term-Limit Controversy

By Senior Reporter

Zimbabwe is bracing for an emotionally charged homecoming as citizens await the return of the body of outspoken liberation war hero and anti-2030 campaigner Blessed Runesu Geza, whose death in exile has stirred deep political and social currents across the country.

Geza died last Friday in South Africa after a period of ill health, ending a life that, in recent years, had become synonymous with defiance, open dissent and fearless criticism of the country’s political direction. His family confirmed that his remains departed South Africa at 6pm on Wednesday, beginning a final journey back home for burial at his rural homestead in Sanyati.

According to a funeral programme released yesterday, the convoy transporting Geza’s body is expected to cut across several provinces, passing through Masvingo, Mvuma, Gweru, Kwekwe, Kadoma, Chegutu, Norton and eventually Harare. Along this route, thousands of mourners are expected to gather, lining the highways and town centres in what supporters say will be both a farewell and a silent show of solidarity.

For many Zimbabweans, Geza was more than a liberation war veteran. Over the past two years, he emerged as one of the most vocal critics of the Second Republic, openly condemning corruption, economic decay and alleged manoeuvres to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s rule beyond the constitutional limit of 2028. His blunt public statements and mobilisation calls against the so-called “Mnangagwa 2030 agenda” resonated with a growing constituency frustrated by shrinking democratic space.

That outspokenness came at a heavy personal cost. Facing unresolved treason charges and placed on a police wanted list, Geza was forced into exile, joining a number of war veterans and political activists who fled the country after openly opposing the current administration. Supporters say his exile was not a choice, but a necessity for survival.

His death, and the circumstances surrounding his burial, have already drawn intense attention. Security agencies are expected to remain on high alert throughout the funeral period, amid fears that gatherings could morph into political demonstrations. Sources close to the war veterans’ community say some of Geza’s allies who previously skipped the country remain at risk, and may not openly attend, fearing arrest or worse.

The timing of Geza’s burial has further heightened tensions. It comes against the backdrop of Cabinet’s approval of Constitutional Amendment Bill Number 3, widely viewed by critics as a pathway to extending presidential term limits. For many of Geza’s supporters, his death symbolises the shrinking space for dissent at a moment when the country faces another constitutional crossroads.

One of Geza’s comrades, Andreas Mathibela, told The Post On Sunday that the late veteran’s warnings should not be ignored.

“No one is safe in this country anymore, let alone those who stand on the side of the majority,” Mathibela said.

“We are definitely opposed to any amendment that seeks to change term limits without a referendum from ordinary citizens.”

He urged Zimbabweans to remain vigilant and united. “To the citizens of Zimbabwe, stand firm and defend your Constitution. That is what comrades like Geza stood for, even when it cost them their freedom and their safety,” he added.

“Geza’s passing was a tragic development, a loss to the progressive community and even a bigger loss to bereaved family. We’re mourning for the loss of our national asset,” said Mathibela.

As the convoy makes its slow passage home, supporters say Geza’s final journey is likely to be as politically symbolic as his life. In death, as in life, Bombshell remains a rallying point, a reminder of the unresolved struggle over power, constitutionalism and the future direction of Zimbabwe.

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