Gutu Activist in Hiding Over Alleged Insult of President Mnangagwa

GUTU – A prominent opposition activist in Masvingo Province is reportedly in hiding amid fears of arrest over allegations of undermining the authority of the President in a social media post. The activist, Wilson Run’anga, is said to have gone into hiding after unknown individuals reportedly visited his home in Mpandawana looking for him during the Easter holidays.

According to reports, Run’anga was reported to the Zimbabwe Republic Police at Gutu Police Station over remarks allegedly made in a WhatsApp group. The complaint, filed under police report number RRB 6776506, accuses him of making statements deemed to undermine the authority of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. The message in question reportedly read:

“Are you aware that there are people insisting that Mnangagwa, despite failing to run the country, wants to cling to power?”

He is also alleged to have criticised the recall of Members of Parliament by Sengezo Tshabangu, suggesting the move contributed to economic hardship.

Sources indicate that although Run’anga has not yet been formally summoned by police, he chose to go into hiding as a precaution after individuals reportedly made inquiries about his whereabouts. The complaint was reportedly filed by Victor Musarurwa (29) of Old Location, Gutu. Masvingo provincial police spokesperson Kudakwashe Dhewa said he had not yet seen the report when contacted for comment. The lack of official confirmation has left uncertainty over whether formal charges will be pursued.

Legal experts say cases involving alleged insults against the President often fall under laws relating to undermining authority, which have historically been controversial in Zimbabwe. Human rights advocates argue that such cases raise questions about freedom of expression, particularly in relation to political speech on private digital platforms. A Harare-based legal analyst, speaking on condition of anonymity, said:

“There is an ongoing debate about the balance between protecting the dignity of public office and safeguarding citizens’ constitutional rights to free expression.”

The incident highlights increasing scrutiny of social media activity in Zimbabwe, where WhatsApp groups and other digital platforms have become key spaces for political discussion.

Observers say the case could test how authorities handle alleged offences committed in private online forums.

Gutu activist hiding Zimbabwe