THE trial of 10 war veterans arrested last October for participating in a “One Million Men March” against President Emmerson Mnangagwa has been set for April 30, this year.
The ex-combatants — Rose Chirenje (65), Nyarai Chigudu (52), Kenesia Jera (62), Edward Mandikutse (69), Dexter Jena (69), Hazvinei Machingura (69), Stephen Chagwiza (48), Jacob Masaraure (75), Mapengo Mapengo (57) and Joephrey Chigwerewe (70) — appeared before Harare magistrate Tapiwa Kuhudzai.
The war veterans were arrested for taking part in an unsanctioned public gathering aimed at inciting public violence, reportedly organised by the late Blessed Geza, who died in South Africa earlier this year. They were recently released after spending several months in remand prison.
The State alleges that on October 17, 2025, the war veterans conspired to incite the public to participate in the unsanctioned march, accusing President Mnangagwa of aligning with zvigananda (criminal saboteurs).
It is further alleged that the former freedom fighters did not notify the police of their plan to hold a public gathering, as required by law. The veterans reportedly assembled at corner George Silundika Avenue and Sam Nujoma Street, near Africa Unity Square, with the intention of participating in the demonstration.
Detectives from the CID Law and Order unit received information about the gathering, which led to the arrests. Police also alleged that some war veterans, who were hiding in a vehicle on the streets, were subsequently taken into custody.
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During interviews, the veterans indicated that they had been transported from Marondera via an organised conveyance, details of which they could not disclose. The court heard that the war veterans lacked lawful entitlement to engage in the public gathering.