Zimbabwe: Heavy Police Presence as Protest Calls Lead to City Shutdowns

Editorial: Hala El Bassir

Zimbabwe’s major cities experienced a significant police presence and widespread closures on Monday following calls for protests urging President Emmerson Mnangagwa to step down.

In Harare, a group of demonstrators attempted to gather at Robert Mugabe Square but was quickly dispersed by security forces, according to videos shared on social media.

“This was meant to be a peaceful march, but police have started intervening,” a protester told the online media outlet CITE. She added, “I am staying here. If I have to die, it will be for my children’s future.”

The government has not yet issued an official statement regarding the situation. However, the security measures and citywide shutdowns highlight ongoing public discontent amid economic challenges and political tensions.