Police Launch Manhunt for Opposition Activist Godfrey Karembera
By Southerton Business Times Reporter | HARARE
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched a manhunt for opposition activist Godfrey Karembera, popularly known as Madzibaba Veshanduko, over allegations of undermining police authority.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi appealed to members of the public for information that could lead to Karembera's arrest.
"The Zimbabwe Republic Police is seeking information on the location and whereabouts of Madzibaba 'Veshanduko' – Godfrey Karembera in connection with reports of undermining police authority," Commissioner Nyathi said.
Police urged anyone with information to report to the nearest police station or contact the National Complaints Desk. The ZRP did not disclose the specific circumstances surrounding the allegation, including where or when the alleged offence was committed, and no further details were provided in the statement.
The latest police appeal comes only weeks after Karembera was acquitted in a separate criminal case linked to anti-government demonstrations allegedly organised by the late war veteran Blessed Geza, also known as Comrade Bombshell. On 3 June 2026, Harare Magistrate Lisa Mutendereki acquitted and discharged Karembera at the close of the State's case after ruling that prosecutors had failed to establish a prima facie case. The court found that the prosecution had not produced sufficient evidence linking Karembera to the offences for which he had been charged. His lawyer, Paida Saurombe of the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), said the acquittal brought to an end approximately eight months of pre-trial detention.
Karembera, 47, is a well-known supporter of former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa and is recognised for wearing distinctive yellow clothing during opposition activities and satirical public performances. In October 2025, police launched a separate manhunt for Karembera and another activist, Kudzai Weston Saruwaka, after they allegedly fled from officers during an attempted arrest in Machipisa, Glen View and Budiriro.
Prosecutors alleged that Karembera had printed and distributed thousands of fliers promoting the planned "One Million Men March", which had been called by Geza to protest against President Emmerson Mnangagwa's administration over allegations of corruption and poor governance. The State alleged that approximately 7,200 fliers bearing anti-government messages were recovered after police intercepted a vehicle in Glen View.
Karembera was subsequently charged with incitement to commit public violence under the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act and offences under the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act, before later being acquitted. The latest allegation of undermining police authority has not yet been tested in court, and Karembera remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty before a competent court.
Godfrey Karembera
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