Zimbabwe Denies Role In Killing Of Activist In South Africa
The Zimbabwean government has firmly denied claims that it was involved in the killing of political activist Kudzai Weston Saruwaka in South Africa, following online allegations that his death was an extraterritorial assassination linked to his activism. The denial comes amid rising fear among Zimbabwean dissidents living in exile after Saruwaka was found dead with gunshot wounds in Pretoria on 7 February 2026.
Saruwaka’s killing occurred just a day after the death of outspoken war veteran Blessed Geza, intensifying speculation on social media and among opposition figures. Authorities in Harare insist the allegations are baseless and have urged the public to allow South African investigators to do their work.
Government Rejects Online Allegations
Zimbabwe government spokesperson Ndavaningi Mangwana dismissed the claims, distancing Harare from the killing and pointing to South Africa’s high crime rate.
“We categorically reject the unfounded allegations being pushed around the internet regarding the tragic death of a Zimbabwean national in South Africa. We had absolutely no role in this incident,” Mangwana said.
“We extend our condolences to the family and express our full confidence in the South African authorities, who we trust will conduct a thorough investigation. We urge all parties to allow the process to proceed without harmful speculation.”
Mangwana added that violent crime in South Africa remains widespread, saying Saruwaka should not be portrayed as a victim of state action without evidence.
Family And Activists Cry Foul
Saruwaka’s brother, former Mutasa Central opposition MP Trevor Saruwaka, publicly suggested the killing was politically motivated. In a Facebook post dated 8 February 2026, he linked his brother’s death to his involvement in activism aligned with the late Blessed Geza.
“The political thugs have assassinated my young brother, Kudzai Weston Saruwaka,” he wrote.
“You are a martyr who has paid the ultimate price for the freedom of Zimbabwe. The struggle shall continue.”
United States-based activist Freeman Chari echoed the sentiment on X.
“There is no doubt in my mind that hitmen sent by Zanu PF assassinated Saruwaka,” he said.
Lured To His Death?
Family members say Saruwaka fled Zimbabwe in October 2025 after receiving what he believed were credible threats linked to his activism. In South Africa, he survived by selling branded door rugs and carpets.
Relatives say a client placed an order worth R27,000 (about US$1,430, approx. R27,000) and paid in three ATM deposits of R9,000 (about US$475, approx. R9,000). After months of silence, Saruwaka was allegedly sent a location in Mabopane to complete delivery.
He reportedly travelled there by Uber. Upon arrival in a bushy area, gunmen allegedly ambushed the vehicle and shot him dead. Family members say nothing, including the merchandise, was stolen.
Opposition figures, including Movement for Democratic Change leader Douglas Mwonzora and Citizens Coalition for Change official Gladys Hlatywayo, described the killing as suspicious and chilling for exiled activists.
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