Calls for reform find little traction as businesses shutter and streets empty, signaling a tense political climate.
**Zimbabwe on Edge: Citizens Opt for Silence Amid Protest Calls**
**Zimbabwe on Edge: Citizens Opt for Silence Amid Protest Calls**
Amid heightened security, Zimbabweans largely abstain from a national protest against President Mnangagwa.
The recent call for nationwide protests in Zimbabwe aimed at pressuring President Emmerson Mnangagwa to resign transformed into an unexpected shutdown as residents chose to remain indoors amidst a significant police presence. Despite the plans for demonstrations spearheaded by war veterans accusing Mnangagwa of corruption and clinging to power, only a minimal number of individuals joined the marches, prompting police intervention to disperse crowds.
Protest leader Blessed Geza, advocating for Vice-President Constantine Chiwenga to replace Mnangagwa, urged citizens via social media platforms not to succumb to fear. However, videos shared online captured moments of police utilizing tear gas against those attempting to gather in Harare's President Robert Mugabe Square. Another protester, highlighting her struggles, voiced concern over the economic difficulties impacting her family, seeking leadership change in the highest political office.
The absence of protestors drew mixed reactions among political figures, with some downplaying the significance of the turnout. Zanu-PF party member Farai Murapira stated that narratives on social media do not accurately reflect reality. Contrarily, political analyst Ibbo Mandaza emphasized that the low participation was a political statement in itself. Throughout cities and towns, many businesses closed, and the usual hustle of street vendors was notably absent, as residents hesitated to engage in the anticipated protests.
In the wake of the protests, local religious leaders appealed for calm, warning that increasing tensions could lead to civil conflict. A petrol station attendant quietly expressed concerns about the potential for societal breakdown. Central to the protests was a swirling rumor of Mnangagwa’s intent to extend his presidency by two years beyond the constitutional limit, inciting widespread frustration among opposition figures.
Despite assurances from Mnangagwa regarding his plans to resign when his term expires in 2028, skepticism persists among the populace. The president's critics, including Geza, have intensified their demands for his departure, threatening to escalate their civilian actions against him. As political tensions continue to mount, Zimbabwe remains on high alert, with many cautiously navigating the fragile state of the nation.
Protest leader Blessed Geza, advocating for Vice-President Constantine Chiwenga to replace Mnangagwa, urged citizens via social media platforms not to succumb to fear. However, videos shared online captured moments of police utilizing tear gas against those attempting to gather in Harare's President Robert Mugabe Square. Another protester, highlighting her struggles, voiced concern over the economic difficulties impacting her family, seeking leadership change in the highest political office.
The absence of protestors drew mixed reactions among political figures, with some downplaying the significance of the turnout. Zanu-PF party member Farai Murapira stated that narratives on social media do not accurately reflect reality. Contrarily, political analyst Ibbo Mandaza emphasized that the low participation was a political statement in itself. Throughout cities and towns, many businesses closed, and the usual hustle of street vendors was notably absent, as residents hesitated to engage in the anticipated protests.
In the wake of the protests, local religious leaders appealed for calm, warning that increasing tensions could lead to civil conflict. A petrol station attendant quietly expressed concerns about the potential for societal breakdown. Central to the protests was a swirling rumor of Mnangagwa’s intent to extend his presidency by two years beyond the constitutional limit, inciting widespread frustration among opposition figures.
Despite assurances from Mnangagwa regarding his plans to resign when his term expires in 2028, skepticism persists among the populace. The president's critics, including Geza, have intensified their demands for his departure, threatening to escalate their civilian actions against him. As political tensions continue to mount, Zimbabwe remains on high alert, with many cautiously navigating the fragile state of the nation.
