Zimbabwe War Veteran Blessed Geza dies in South Africa: Legacy of liberation, protest and controversy
Zimbabwe war veteran Blessed Geza has died in South Africa
Zimbabwean liberation war veteran Blessed Runesu Geza, popularly known as Cde Bombshell, has died in South Africa, his family confirmed. The outspoken veteran, whose activism and controversial political stance marked the last chapters of his life, passed away at a cardiac hospital earlier today, sending shockwaves through Zimbabwe’s political and social landscape.
Geza’s death represents the end of a polarizing but impactful chapter in Zimbabwe’s post-independence history, one defined by decades of liberation struggle, unwavering criticism of authority, and persistent demands for accountability in governance.
Family Confirms Death, Warns Against Fraudulent Donation Campaigns
In an official statement, the Geza family expressed profound sadness over his death and paid tribute to his lifetime of advocacy.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our hero Cde Blessed Runesu Geza… Mr Geza touched many lives with his fight for justice… We urge Zimbabweans to be strong during this trying moment,” the family said.
The family also warned the public to ignore calls for cash donations or GoFundMe campaigns circulating online, which they say are fraudulent attempts to exploit their loss. They emphasised that official funeral arrangements will be shared directly by the family in due course.
A Life Shaped by Liberation Struggle and Political Dissent
Born in 1943, Geza was a veteran of Zimbabwe’s liberation war and a prominent figure in national politics long after independence. For decades he was known for defending the ideals of freedom and self-determination. During the liberation struggle, he fought against colonial oppression and later played a role in Zimbabwe’s security and political spheres.
However, his later years were marked by controversy and political rebellion. After accusing President Emmerson Mnangagwa of corruption, nepotism, and betraying the liberation ideals, Geza was expelled from the ruling ZANU-PF party in March 2025. His vocal criticism of the government and calls for mass protests earned him both admiration from some Zimbabweans and sharp rebuke from others.
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Premonition and Final Message to the Nation
Just a day before his death, Geza released a poignant message that many now see as prophetic. In that statement, he acknowledged his fading energy but reaffirmed his belief in Zimbabweans’ capacity to strive for change.
“I feel my energy sapping… Yet, I will be gratified, knowing I fought a noble war… Your struggles are my struggles.”
Geza urged citizens never to let go of the dream of a Zimbabwe where every child can dream, every parent can work with dignity, and resources are shared equitably, themes that defined both his activism and his critique of post-independence governance.
Legacy: Polarising, Passionate, and Provocative
Blessed Geza’s legacy is complex. To supporters, he was a fearless warrior who dared to confront corruption and injustice. To critics, his tactics were divisive and at times disconnected from mainstream public sentiment. Geza’s calls for nationwide protests and his self-styled leadership of veteran factions sometimes failed to translate into broad public mobilisation, yet they forced national dialogue on governance, corruption, and accountability.
He was also subject to criminal charges and a manhunt, underscoring the tension between state authority and dissenting voices in Zimbabwe’s political environment.
Zimbabwe Reflects on an Iconic, Controversial Figure
As Zimbabwe mourns, analysts suggest Geza’s death could prompt reflection on both the liberation generation’s contributions and the challenges facing democratic expression in the modern era. His life’s arc, from guerrilla fighter to outspoken critic of political leadership, mirrors the journey of many liberation figures trying to reconcile ideals with contemporary realities.
Whether revered as a hero or debated as a controversial dissident, Blessed Geza’s death marks a defining moment in Zimbabwe’s ongoing political narrative.
FAQ
Who was Blessed Geza?
Blessed Runesu Geza was a Zimbabwean liberation war veteran and political activist, widely known as “Cde Bombshell.” He participated in the liberation struggle and later became a vocal critic of government leadership.
When did Blessed Geza die?
Geza died on 6 February 2026 at a cardiac hospital in South Africa, his family confirmed.
Why did the family warn against donation campaigns?
The family said fraudulent calls for cash donations towards his funeral were circulating online and urged Zimbabweans to ignore them.
What impact did Blessed Geza have in Zimbabwe?
He was influential as a liberation war veteran and later as a political dissenter, challenging corruption and calling for accountability from the Mnangagwa government.
What was Geza’s final message?
In his last address before his death, Geza spoke of diminishing energy but urged Zimbabweans to continue striving for dignity, equality, and justice.
Why was Blessed Geza expelled from ZANU-PF?
Geza was expelled in 2025 after publicly calling for President Mnangagwa’s resignation and accusing the leadership of corruption and betrayal of liberation ideals.
Was Geza ever charged with crimes?
Yes, he faced criminal allegations, including charges of undermining presidential authority, which led to a police manhunt in 2025.