Harare, Zimbabwe — Political unrest is mounting in Zimbabwe as citizens take to the streets, demanding the resignation of President Emmerson Mnangagwa amid heavy security presence.
A nationwide demonstration, initially planned as a mass movement to pressure Mnangagwa out of office, resulted in a near shutdown as tensions escalated.
Protest organizer Blessed Geza, in a post on X, urged citizens to remain resolute despite reports of a low turnout.
Mnangagwa, 82, has faced mounting criticism over alleged human rights violations, political repression, electoral controversies, and corruption—factors that have strained Zimbabwe’s international reputation. In response, the United States has imposed sanctions on key figures within his administration.
Despite promising democratic and economic reforms after leading the 2017 coup that ousted longtime ruler Robert Mugabe, Mnangagwa has struggled to transform Zimbabwe’s rich mineral resources into sustainable economic growth.
In a move seen as preemptive, Mnangagwa dismissed Army Chief Anselem Sanyatwe just ahead of the planned demonstrations on Monday.
Currently serving his second and final term, Mnangagwa remains under pressure as economic hardship deepens.
“I am 63, and life is tough. I have to care for my grandchildren because my children cannot afford to,” a protester on crutches told Citizens Voice Network, reflecting widespread economic distress.
Authorities had earlier issued strict warnings against protests, reiterating that demonstrations would not be tolerated.
By Enoch Odesola | April 1, 2025.
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