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There have been mixed feelings about the protest organised by a war veteran in hiding, Blessed Geza, who had called for mass demonstrations to force the resignation of President Mnangagwa on 31 March 2025.
Dr Jenfan Muswere, the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, thanked Zimbabweans for the peace and tranquillity experienced throughout the country yesterday.
“It was business as usual. The illegal primary wish of the cyber terrorists did not materialize. As we continue to appreciate the role of the security sector in the maintenance of law and order, we must remain united, vigilant, and steadfast against any attempts to disrupt development. Together, we have a shared responsibility to develop our country. We are masters of our destiny,” Dr Muswere said.
Linda Masrira, the Founder of the Labour Economists and African Democrats (LEAD) said as Zimbabweans across the country woke up to find public transport operators not operating, creating an eerie atmosphere reminiscent of past protests, they stayed at home because past demonstrations left ordinary citizens worse off than before.
“While some may claim that the stay-away was a success for Geza’s planned protests, the reality is different. Zimbabweans chose to stay away not in support of the protest but to preserve their lives and livelihoods. With approximately 2.2 million people, i.e., 76% of the employed population, working in the informal sector, and with 80% of the economy being informal, few can afford to risk their businesses for political battles that do not address their struggles.
“This moment highlights Zimbabweans’ growing political maturity and refusal to be manipulated. Labour Economists and Afrikan Democrats (LEAD) have always stood for economic empowerment, sustainable governance, and pragmatic solutions, not empty political theatrics that leave the people more vulnerable. Unfortunately, Geza attempted to exploit the suffering of Zimbabweans to amplify his own frustrations within ZANU-PF.
“This also serves as a wake-up call for Zimbabweans in the diaspora, who often encourage protests from afar without understanding the daily realities on the ground. Zimbabweans at home have grown weary of directionless demonstrations that do not yield systemic change. The failure of the M31 protest sends a clear message—the people demand sustainable solutions, not political games,” Masarira said.
She added that LEAD remains committed to pushing for policies that empower citizens, protect their livelihoods, and create economic justice for all, while advocating for dignified wages, labour justice, and governance reforms that place people above politics.
In a post yesterday afternoon, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) reiterated that the situation in Harare CBD was normal and calm including at Robert Mugabe Square where some social media sites were falsely claiming that there were people barricading roads with stones.
“This is not correct. The public should ignore calls by individuals and syndicates through some social media sites to engage in unlawful public gathering activities. The Police warn social media sites against the circulation of old videos intending to cause alarm and despondency in the country,” the ZRP said.
Owen Ncube, the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Midlands Province said it was business as usual in the province.
“Our security sector is high on the alert to deal decisively with any malcontents bent on undermining security, peace, and harmony currently enjoyed by our law-abiding citizens. The planned demonstrations will end where they started; on social media platforms and never on our streets.
“As Midlands Province, we will continue to stand with our First Secretary and President of ZANU-PF, Head of State and Government, Commander in Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and SADC Chairman, His Excellency, President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Cde Dr E.D Mnangagwa, who overwhelmingly won the 23 August 2023 harmonized elections to lead the country Any attempts to remove a constitutionally elected Government is an insurrection and will be regarded as subversion,” he said.
Dr. Paul Tungwarara, the Presidential Investment Advisor, publicly requested that Nyokayemabhunu and Geza apologise to His Excellency Dr ED Mnangagwa and described him as a forgiving Father, and a listening President highlighting his willingness to forgive and engage with critics.
“The 31 March Demonstration has failed and evidence says it was a money scheme, The call for demonstrations was motivated by financial gain,” Dr Tungwarara said.
Hon Tanatsiwa Mukomberi, the Member of Parliament for Masvingo South Constituency, praised his constituents for maintaining peace and quietness in his Constituency, with no violence or demonstrations.
An activist who described himself as Cde Chivara said citizens should look at what happened and why it happened – key points that the masses will talk about forever
“Businesses will talk about lost profits, children will talk about the day they didn’t go to school, patients will remember the day as a day they were anxious about receiving health care,” he said.
