Zimbabweans Opt for Safety Amid Planned Protests

Police enforced measures anticipating anti-government protests in Zimbabwe, resulting in reduced public activity and business closures. Calls for uprising by Blessed Geza were largely unheeded, heightening fear among citizens. The situation reflects significant governmental control amid unrest.

In Harare, Zimbabwe, police established checkpoints on Monday to prepare for anticipated anti-government protests, searching vehicles for weapons. As a result, traffic decreased significantly in major cities, with many residents opting to abstain from work and children remaining home from school.

A ZimLive correspondent observed Bulawayo’s Joshua Mqabuko Street as eerily quiet, resembling a peaceful Sunday morning due to the absence of people and vehicles. An outspoken war veteran, Blessed Geza, had called for a revolution against President Emmerson Mnangagwa, criticizing his leadership and approach to corruption.

Authorities have charged Geza with treason, yet he managed to avoid capture. Just before the protests, he urged citizens on social media to mobilize against corrupt governance, stating that it was a collective duty for every Zimbabwean. However, as of 8 AM, there were no protests evident, suggesting many chose to stay home possibly out of fear.

A correspondent reported that Geza’s actions appeared counterproductive, leading to significant chaos and potential economic harm as numerous industries remained closed. Major supermarkets in both Bulawayo and Harare decided not to open for business.

Despite police urging citizens to continue with their daily routines and promising adequate security, law enforcement officers had their leave canceled. Additionally, government funds were unexpectedly transferred to police accounts, and detectives were required to sign an agreement to remain loyal to the government and adhere to instructions from the police commissioner.

In summary, the anticipated protests in Zimbabwe led to significant police presence and a notable decrease in public activity, as many citizens opted to remain at home. Despite calls for an uprising by Blessed Geza, who faces treason charges, the fear of reprisal appeared to inhibit public participation. This has resulted in a lack of protest activity, leading to negative implications for the local economy as businesses remained closed and police prepared for potential unrest.

Original Source: www.thezimbabwemail.com