ZRP Warns “We’re Ready” As Geza Calls For Total Stay Away Shutdown

ZRP Warns “Chaos Will Not Be Tolerated” Ahead Of Geza’s Stay Away Shutdown

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has moved to reassure the public of “maximum security” as political fugitive Blessed “Bombshell” Geza escalates his campaign by calling for an indefinite national shutdown starting Tuesday, 22 April 2025.

In a press statement released on 21 April, police confirmed that security forces had been deployed countrywide to safeguard peace and stability amid fears of unrest linked to the stay-away call.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is ready to ensure that the public is free to engage in all socioeconomic activities without fear, intimidation, threats or harassment on 22 and 23 April 2025,” said Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the spokesperson of theZRP.

Geza, who is in hiding and wanted for inciting violence and theft, had initially announced a two-day stay-at-home protest. However, on 21 April, he dramatically declared the shutdown would now be indefinite until President Emmerson Mnangagwa leaves office.

In response to the rising tension, Commissioner Nyathi warned that any disruption to public order would not be tolerated.

“The Police will arrest anyone who interferes with the smooth flow of traffic and movement of the public,”
he said.

“All local and foreign exhibitors attending the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair are assured of their security and safety.”

The ZRP has also urged the public to avoid social media posts “meant to cause chaos and alarm,” suggesting that intelligence services are monitoring digital platforms for possible incitement.

Security services on high alert amid shutdown threats

Blessed Geza, a former war veteran and vocal government critic, first called for mass protests on 31 March 2025. When those demonstrations failed to materialise, with few people showing up and dozens arrested, Geza rebranded the inactivity as “a peaceful act of resistance.”

In a series of online videos, Geza renewed his appeal for Zimbabweans to stay at home on 22 and 23 April—but on 21 April, he upped the stakes by calling for a complete and indefinite shutdown.

“The country must stop until the government falls,” said Geza.
“We tried marching in the streets. They send riot police. They send dogs. They arrest and beat our brothers and sisters. Now we stay home.”

He added:

“Shops and industries will not open, and kombis will be parked. The police will not teargas you, but if they ever come to you, you have the right to defend yourselves.”

Geza also alleged that the government is scheming to extend President Mnangagwa’s term of office to 2030 without a constitutional referendum. He named Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, Attorney General Virginia Mabhiza, and Speaker of Parliament Jacob Mudenda as key players in the alleged plot.

The police have not publicly responded to these allegations.

Public urged to remain calm and report threats

In light of the rising political rhetoric and fears of unrest, the police provided a list of emergency contact numbers for members of the public to report any threats, intimidation, or incitement.

“The public should feel free to report anyone inciting violence, issuing threats, or intimidating them to engage in unlawful acts,” said Commissioner Nyathi.

Numbers provided include: