“We cannot afford it” Zimbabweans react to Blessed Geza’s call for 2 day shutdown

Harare- DISGRUNTLED war veteran Blessed Geza’s call for a two-day national shutdown on 22 and 23 April 2025 has sparked a wave of reactions across Zimbabwe. While Geza wants the action to pressure President Mnangagwa to step down, many Zimbabweans say they simply cannot afford to stay at home.

“I am pleading with you to stay home,” Geza posted online. “I know it is hard considering we are living from hand to mouth. So, fellow Zimbabweans, we are staying away to force Mnangagwa to step down.”

“This is not the right time”
On social media, many Zimbabweans voiced frustration about the timing. The proposed shutdown comes just after the four-day Easter weekend, when many businesses were already closed.

“For the Blessed Geza-called SHUTDOWN to work it will need the full buy-in of kombi operators & the selflessness each one of us,” wrote @TichRay on X (formerly Twitter).

“But knowing Zimbos as I do, each of us will still find a way to their daily routines.
I foresee a mega flop… calling for people to stay home straight after a 4-day holiday in an informal economy wasn’t the brightest of ideas.”

@KaelaMiky echoed the same concerns:

“Gotta be honest with y’all I really can’t afford to be home without working for 2 days. Haa avaGeza aya”

Another user, @YourGirlTino, said people’s reaction might depend on the presence of the military:

“I just think the Military will determine how this goes. Muroad mukazara maTanker people will get scared and stay home. Kana musina maTanker it’ll be business as usual. 6 days pasina business is an entrepreneurship’s worst nightmare.”

“Shutdowns no longer practical”

Many pointed out that Zimbabwe’s economic structure has changed. With most people working in the informal sector, missing two days could mean missing vital income.

“In reality shutdowns could work back in 1998 when many were employed,” said @MateteYoung.
“Now many are in the informal economy where it’s hand to mouth. Politicians ought to understand this.”

@tawoe101 said the move might end up hurting struggling citizens more than the government:

“This [is] totally wrong timing. Banks and other companies have been closed for the past days. Now you want to add more? Mdhara ngaiite order uyu.”

Others raised concerns about those already in prison over previous demonstrations:

“Did he say anything about those who were arrested during the last protest and are still in jail?” asked @Gora_Jennifer.

“It’s a sacrifice we must make”
Not everyone opposed the idea. Some users supported Geza’s call, saying people must be willing to make sacrifices if they want to see change.

“Without sacrifice, the Zimbabwe we have today—challenging as it is—will still be far better than the Zimbabwe we will face tomorrow,” wrote @nabyjoh.
“Just imagine what that future might look like.”

@kudzi891 added:

“If 2 days without work makes you starve, then this stay away is for you.”

Others encouraged compromise.

“Fair enough. If you can’t do 2 then do 1,” wrote @drDendere.
“Can you move your work to home for two days?”

Meanwhile, @BloggoJones reflected on how people survived during COVID-19 lockdowns:

“I get you and I understand the economy is way tighter now but just wondering if there’s options to look back at for people to survive times like this.”

Geza, who is currently in hiding, remains defiant. He said:

“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.”

As the April 22 and 23 dates approach, Zimbabwe waits to see whether the call will be heeded—or fall flat.

Via iHarare