Zimbabwe’s National Protest Turns into a Shutdown as Security Forces Disperse Few Demonstrators.
Zimbabwe:
A planned national protest demanding the resignation of Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa devolved into a widespread shutdown on Monday, as citizens opted to stay home rather than face a heavy security presence in the streets.
Organized by a group of disgruntled war veterans, the protest aimed to pressure Mnangagwa to step down over allegations of corruption and his attempts to extend his hold on power. However, only a small group of protesters gathered in various parts of the country, and they were quickly dispersed by police using teargas and roadblocks.
In the capital, Harare, a video surfaced showing police clashing with a group of demonstrators at President Robert Mugabe Square. A protester on crutches, speaking to local media, expressed frustration over the country’s economic crisis and her desire for Vice-President Constantine Chiwenga to take over. “I am 63 and life is tough… my children cannot afford to,” she said.
Blessed Geza, a former Zanu-PF member and leader of the protest, condemned the low turnout and urged Zimbabweans to “not be cowards,” urging them to rally in the streets to demand Mnangagwa’s resignation. Geza, who supports Chiwenga’s rise to power, had earlier called for mass mobilization to force the president out.
However, the protest was overshadowed by the intense security measures across the country. Businesses closed, schools shut down, and public transport was almost nonexistent, as residents feared clashes with security forces. Many people opted to stay indoors to avoid the chaos.
Zanu-PF party spokesperson Farai Murapira downplayed the protest, stating that social media did not reflect the reality on the ground. Political scientist Ibbo Mandaza disagreed, saying the shutdown itself was a “massive political statement,” highlighting widespread dissatisfaction with Mnangagwa’s leadership.
The demonstration was driven by reports that Mnangagwa may attempt to extend his second term beyond its constitutional limit, with rumors suggesting he plans to stay in office until 2030. Although the president has publicly denied these claims, many Zimbabweans remain unconvinced.
As tensions simmer, religious leaders have called for calm, warning that unrest could destabilize the already fragile nation. A petrol station attendant, speaking anonymously, expressed concern that the country could spiral into civil war if tensions escalate further.
