Importance Score: 55 / 100 🔵
A planned national demonstration in Zimbabwe, intended to urge President Emmerson Mnangagwa to step down, largely became a nationwide standstill as residents chose to stay home amidst a robust security deployment. This Zimbabwe protest, organized amid rising political tension, saw minimal street action as compared to the intended scale, highlighting citizen apprehension and the government’s firm stance.
Zimbabwe Shutdown: Citizens Stay Home Amid Protest Call
Only a small number of demonstrators participated in the intended march. The protest was initiated by a collective of dissatisfied war veterans who have accused President Mnangagwa of corruption and a desire to remain in power beyond his constitutional mandate. Law enforcement swiftly dispersed the few who did gather.
Low Turnout and Leader’s Response
Following reports indicating a low level of participation, Blessed Geza, the protest’s leader, took to social media platform X to encourage Zimbabweans to “not be cowards.” His message aimed to galvanize further action despite the evident public reluctance to engage in street protests.
Emmerson Mnangagwa assumed the presidency in 2017 after a military coup that ousted long-serving leader Robert Mugabe. He is currently serving his second and constitutionally final term in office.
Police Action in Harare
Video footage circulating on social media showed police deploying tear gas to scatter a gathering at Robert Mugabe Square in Harare. This action underscores the authorities’ intent to prevent any form of public assembly related to the planned protests.
In another video clip, a woman recounted the police’s efforts to suppress what she described as a “peaceful protest.” She asserted the demonstrators’ resolve to remain, stating, “we’re not going anywhere, we’re going to stay here,” reflecting a defiant sentiment despite the security crackdown.
Protesters Chant Against “2030 Agenda”
A small group of protestors was also recorded chanting slogans such as, “We don’t want the 2030 agenda.” This chant references the ruling Zanu-PF party’s perceived intention to facilitate an extension of Mnangagwa’s presidential term, a move that is increasingly becoming a point of contention.
Citizen Testimonies of Hardship
“I am 63 and life is tough…I am taking care of my grandchildren because my children cannot afford to,” a protester using crutches expressed to local media outlet Citizens Voice Network. This personal account highlights the socio-economic struggles driving some to participate in protest actions.
Adding a political dimension, the same protester voiced a preference for leadership change, stating, “We want General [Constantine] Chiwenga to take over.”
Widespread Closures and Limited Transport
Across various cities and towns in Zimbabwe, businesses and educational institutions remained closed. Public transportation was also significantly reduced. These closures followed widespread warnings indicating that any protest activity would face strict suppression by the authorities, contributing to the low turnout on the streets.
Term Extension Controversy
The core issue fueling the recent wave of dissent is the reported plan by the president to extend his final term by two additional years, aiming to remain in office until 2030. President Mnangagwa’s current term is set to conclude in 2028.
His supporters have circulated the slogan “2030 he will still be the leader,” despite constitutional term limits restricting presidential tenure to two five-year periods.
Despite recent assurances from the President that he intends to relinquish power in three years as per the constitution, skepticism persists among sections of the populace and opposition groups.
Protest Leader’s Criticism
This perceived ambiguity has fueled the discontent of Blessed Geza, a veteran of Zimbabwe’s 1970s liberation war and a former high-ranking member of Zanu-PF. Geza has become a vocal critic of Mnangagwa’s administration and its policies.
In a series of strongly worded press briefings, often employing harsh language, Geza has repeatedly demanded the 82-year-old president’s resignation, threatening further action if his demands are not met. His pronouncements reflect the heightened political atmosphere and the deep divisions within Zimbabwean society.