KEY POINTS
- Protests in Harare demand President Mnangagwa’s resignation.
- Police fire tear gas as demonstrators block major streets.
- Nine journalists were detained and interrogated over protest coverage.
On March 31, citizens took to the streets of Harare in a fierce protest against President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government. What began as a peaceful day quickly escalated when demonstrators, led by expelled Zanu PF member and war veteran Blessed Geza, gathered at Freedom Square around 10:30 a.m. Their main demand: the immediate resignation of President Mnangagwa.
Despite initial quietude, the protest grew as more citizens voiced their discontent. Protesters were heard chanting slogans like “Tipeiwo Commander” (Give us the Commander) and “2030 taramba” (We reject 2030).
The demonstrators voiced frustrations not only with Mnangagwa but also with his administration’s handling of the country’s affairs. Some protesters expressed support for Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, calling for his leadership.
Police respond with tear gas, arrests
The police quickly attempted to disperse the protesters by firing tear gas, but the crowds persisted, regrouping near the Harare Magistrates Court and around Freedom Square.
The protesters’ actions led to road blockages at the Rotten Row and Robert Mugabe Street junction. The demonstration took on a more defiant tone as protesters blocked streets with stones, preventing vehicular traffic from passing through.
In a separate development, police detained nine journalists outside the Harare Magistrates Court. The reporters were taken to Harare Central Police Station for questioning, where they were interrogated about their activities during the protests. They were released after being profiled and questioned about their media affiliations and sources. Despite the temporary detention, journalists continued to report on the unfolding protests.
Growing dissent amid shifting police tactics
According to NewZimbabwe, the police issued statements attempting to discredit the visuals of the protests circulating in the media. However, these denials were quickly overshadowed by widespread media coverage, which captured the ongoing confrontations. While some arrests were made, many protesters were quickly released and rejoined the demonstration.
This selective enforcement suggested that police may be employing a more lenient approach compared to previous confrontations with opposition groups.
Nevertheless, tensions remained high, with protesters continuing to demand significant political change. The day’s events highlighted the growing discontent and the volatility surrounding President Mnangagwa’s government.
