A massive security deployment across Zimbabwe’s major cities on Monday effectively suppressed a nationwide protest demanding the resignation of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. The demonstrations, called by war veterans opposed to Mnangagwa’s prolonged rule, failed to gain widespread momentum due to the heavy police and military presence.
In Harare and Bulawayo, most businesses, schools, and offices remained closed, as citizens opted to stay indoors, fearing potential clashes between protesters and security forces. Despite government assurances of peace, tensions were high as law enforcement patrolled key locations.
The protests were spearheaded by a faction of Zimbabwe’s independence war veterans, led by Blessed Geza, who had once been staunch allies of Mnangagwa but now accuse him of corruption and an attempt to extend his rule beyond the constitutional limit.
In January, the ruling ZANU-PF party announced plans to amend the constitution to allow Mnangagwa to stay in power until 2030, adding two more years to his presidency. The proposal has been widely criticized by opposition groups and sections of his own party, fearing it signals a return to authoritarian rule.
Mnangagwa, who seized power from long-time leader Robert Mugabe in a 2017 coup, is currently serving what should be his second and final term. However, growing dissatisfaction within ZANU-PF has led to internal divisions, with some factions backing Vice President and former army general Constantine Chiwenga as a potential successor.
While Chiwenga has not publicly commented on the calls for him to take over, reports suggest a deepening rift between the two men, despite government officials denying any internal conflicts.
Security forces, which included heavily armed police and soldiers, ensured that large-scale demonstrations did not take place. A video circulating on social media showed riot police using tear gas to disperse a small group of protesters in Harare who were chanting, “We reject 2030.”
Zimbabwe is currently grappling with severe economic difficulties, including inflation, high unemployment, and a deteriorating currency. Many citizens blame Mnangagwa’s administration for widespread corruption and mismanagement, further fueling public discontent.
Despite repeated assurances that he has no intention of staying beyond his constitutional term, skepticism remains high. Zimbabwe’s 2013 constitution strictly limits the presidency to two five-year terms, but critics fear an attempt to alter the law to entrench Mnangagwa’s rule.
Authorities in Harare described the situation on Monday as “peaceful” and urged citizens to resume normal activities. However, opposition groups and activists warn that the suppression of protests is a sign of increasing repression as Zimbabwe heads into a politically uncertain future.
