98 Arrested in Protest Against Mnangagwa: Harare – Zimbabwean authorities have cracked down on a protest against Mnangagwa, arresting 98 demonstrators who demanded the president’s resignation.
A wave of political unrest has gripped Zimbabwe, with nearly 100 demonstrators taken into custody for participating in a protest against Mnangagwa. The protests, organized by a former Zanu-PF veteran, erupted in the capital Harare on Monday. Authorities have scheduled a ruling on their bail for April 10.
Harare Protests: Clashes with Security Forces
The demonstrators, chanting slogans like “Enough is Enough” and “Mnangagwa Must Go,” gathered at Harare’s Freedom Square. Police reports indicate that about 200 people joined the protest against Mnangagwa, which escalated into violence as protesters allegedly hurled stones at security forces. Law enforcement cited violations of public order laws, including breaching the peace and promoting public violence.
Businesses Shut Down Amid Protest Against Mnangagwa
While the turnout at the protests remained relatively small, the economic impact was widespread. Businesses, schools, and public transport services shut down for the day, reflecting broader discontent. Many residents opted for a stay-away protest, fearing a potential crackdown from security forces.
Journalists Targeted Amid Protest Against Mnangagwa
Zimbabwean authorities also detained 10 journalists covering the demonstrations. The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zimbabwe condemned the arrests, labeling them an attack on press freedom. One journalist, who interviewed the protest’s mobilizer, Blessed Geza, has been jailed since February 24. Geza has emerged as a key figure in the opposition movement leading the protest against Mnangagwa.
Who is Blessed Geza? The Face of Protest Against Mnangagwa
A former parliamentarian and once a Zanu-PF insider, Blessed Geza has become a symbol of defiance against Mnangagwa’s leadership. His arrest in February followed accusations of inciting dissent. Geza has vowed to continue his movement, announcing that he will deliver a “crucial” address on Wednesday outlining the next phase of resistance.
Mnangagwa’s Controversial Leadership Under Fire
Since seizing power in a 2017 coup, Mnangagwa’s government has faced mounting accusations of authoritarianism. His administration has suppressed opposition parties through lengthy jail terms, police brutality, and restricted press freedom. The latest crackdown on the protest against Mnangagwa further fuels concerns about human rights violations under his rule.
What’s Next? Zimbabwe’s Political Tensions Intensify
The mass arrests indicate rising tensions in Zimbabwe’s political landscape. With activists like Geza gaining traction, the government’s response in the coming weeks could determine the trajectory of opposition movements. International watchdogs and human rights organizations continue to monitor the situation closely.
