Zimbabwe shuts down amid calls for protests

A national protest aimed at pressuring Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa to resign turned into a shutdown. Many citizens chose to stay home instead of marching. This decision came amid a heavy police presence.

Only a few protesters participated in the planned march. The protest was led by disgruntled war veterans. They accused Mnangagwa of corruption and trying to hold onto power. Police quickly dispersed the small group.

After seeing the low turnout, protest leader Blessed Geza urged people on X not to be cowards. Mnangagwa became president in 2017 after a coup against Robert Mugabe. He is currently serving his second and final term.

Geza wants Vice-President Constantine Chiwenga to replace Mnangagwa. He had previously called for Zimbabweans to "fill the streets" in a final push for change.

Videos shared on social media showed police using tear gas on crowds at President Robert Mugabe Square in Harare. In one video, a woman described police efforts to suppress what she called a peaceful protest. She insisted, "We're not going anywhere."

A 63-year-old protester on crutches told local media about her struggles caring for her grandchildren. She expressed support for General Chiwenga taking over leadership.

Zimbabweans largely stayed away from the protest against President Mnangagwa. The vice-president has not publicly commented on calls for him to take over. Government officials deny any rift between him and Mnangagwa.

Farai Murapira from Zanu-PF said social media does not reflect reality regarding turnout numbers. Political scientist Ibbo Mandaza disagreed, stating that the shutdown was a significant political statement.

In various cities and towns, most businesses were closed, leaving streets empty of vendors and traffic. Schools shut down, and public transport was limited as residents avoided potential chaos.

Police increased security with roadblocks into Harare and foot patrols throughout the city center. They also removed stones and cement blocks thrown by protesters.

The clergy has called for calm, warning that unrest could destabilize Zimbabwe further. A petrol station attendant quietly expressed concern about civil war among ordinary people.

The recent protests are fueled by reports that Mnangagwa plans to extend his term until 2030. His current term ends in 2028 but supporters have shared slogans suggesting he will remain in power longer.

Despite assurances from Mnangagwa that he intends to step down in three years, many remain skeptical about his intentions. This uncertainty has angered Geza, who is a veteran of the liberation war and former senior Zanu-PF member.

In press conferences filled with strong language, Geza repeatedly demanded that the 82-year-old president resign or face removal from office.