Zimbabwe police fired teargas to disperse a few protesters that gathered in Harare at Freedom Square this morning. The square is an open field that lies between Rainbow Towers on one side, and Interpol and the Harare Magistrate’s Court on the other.
The few protestors gathered in response to a call by fugitive War Veteran, Blessed Geza who has called on President Mnangagwa to resign. Most of the city centre was however quiet as most Zimbabwean chose to stay at home, leaving the CBD empty. School students also largely stayed away from school.
The government had assured citizens that the 31st of March would be a usual day with people and businesses encouraged to go about their normal activities as they would have protection of the police. This assurance though has largely been ignored by Zimbabweans.
In a statement on X today, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said officers are conducting patrols to maintain order, urging the public to go about their daily activities without fear.
“The ZRP assures the public that the situation in the country is peaceful. As police officers conduct patrols, the public should feel free to embark on their day-to-day activities”
Transport operators, both for commuters and also long distance buses, also largely stayed off the road. It’s not clear if this is in support of the anti-government protests or fear of having their vehicles vandalised.
Geza reportedly has the backing of a faction in Zanu PF opposed to a push to extend Mnangagwa’s presidency beyond the constitutional 2 term limit.
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