Zimbabwe Protest Fizzles Amid Heavy Security Presence

A national protest aimed at pressuring Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa to resign resulted in a near-total shutdown, as citizens opted to stay home rather than take to the streets amid a heavy security presence.

Despite calls for mass demonstrations, only a handful of protesters participated in the march, which was spearheaded by a group of disgruntled war veterans accusing Mnangagwa of corruption and an attempt to extend his rule. Police swiftly dispersed those who did turn out.

Following reports of the low turnout, protest leader Blessed Geza urged Zimbabweans “not to be cowards” in a post on X. Geza, who supports Vice-President Constantine Chiwenga as Mnangagwa’s successor, had previously called for citizens to “fill the streets” in a final push to force the president’s resignation.

Videos shared on social media showed police using tear gas to disperse a crowd gathered at President Robert Mugabe Square in Harare. In another video, a woman accused authorities of cracking down on what she described as a “peaceful protest,” vowing to remain in the streets.

“I am 63, and life is tough. I am taking care of my grandchildren because my children cannot afford to,” said a protester on crutches to local media outlet Citizens Voice Network. “We want General [Constantine] Chiwenga to take over.”
Despite the small turnout of protesters, the shutdown had a significant impact. Across cities and towns, businesses remained closed, and usually bustling streets were eerily quiet. Schools shut down, and public transportation was scarce as residents stayed away, wary of possible violence.

Security forces tightened their grip on Harare, mounting roadblocks, patrolling the city center on foot and in trucks, and removing debris left by demonstrators.

Government officials denied any rift between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga, while ruling party member Farai Murapira dismissed the protest, stating that social media was not a reflection of reality. However, political analyst Ibbo Mandaza disagreed, asserting that the shutdown itself was a powerful political statement.

Tensions Over Mnangagwa’s FutureAt the core of the unrest is speculation that Mnangagwa plans to extend his term by two years beyond the constitutional limit, to 2030.
Though his second term is set to expire in 2028, supporters have been circulating the slogan “2030 he will still be the leader.”

While Mnangagwa recently assured the public that he intends to step down in three years, skepticism remains high.

This uncertainty has fueled Geza’s vocal opposition. A veteran of the 1970s liberation war and former senior Zanu-PF member, he has launched an expletive-laden campaign demanding the president’s immediate resignation.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe’s clergy has called for restraint, warning that escalating tensions could further destabilize the already fragile nation.

BBC/Patience Ameh