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An anticipated nationwide demonstration calling for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s resignation failed to gain traction on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, as a climate of fear and a heavy security presence kept citizens off the streets. Instead of the mass protests organizers had envisioned, the country saw an eerie standstill, with businesses closed, schools shut, and public transport services severely disrupted.
Mnangagwa, 82, has been in power since 2017, following a military-backed coup that removed long-time leader Robert Mugabe. Initially hailed as a reformist, his tenure has been marred by economic decline, allegations of corruption, and crackdowns on dissent. Zimbabwe, once one of Africa’s most promising economies, has faced persistent economic turmoil, characterized by hyperinflation, job losses, and a failing healthcare system.
Recent reports that Mnangagwa is seeking to extend his rule beyond 2028, when his second and final term is set to expire, have sparked fresh outrage. Although the constitution limits presidents to two five-year terms, his supporters have been circulating the slogan “2030 he will still be the leader”, fueling speculation that he intends to amend the law to stay in power.
Tuesday’s demonstration was spearheaded by a faction of war veterans led by Blessed Geza, a former senior member of the ruling Zanu-PF party. Geza, an outspoken critic of Mnangagwa, has accused the president of betraying the values of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle. He has called for Vice-President Constantine Chiwenga, a former military commander, to take over the presidency.
However, the protest never gained momentum. Anticipating a confrontation, authorities deployed police and soldiers across major cities. Roadblocks were mounted at key entry points into Harare, while security forces patrolled the streets on foot and in trucks. Businesses, wary of potential unrest, kept their doors shut, while residents chose to stay indoors.
In Harare, the few protesters who braved the streets were quickly dispersed. Police used teargas at President Robert Mugabe Square to scatter a small crowd attempting to gather. Videos circulating on social media showed chaos unfolding, with a woman defiantly stating, “We are not leaving. This is our country.” Another clip featured a 63-year-old protester on crutches lamenting the harsh economic conditions: “Life is tough. I am taking care of my grandchildren because my children cannot afford to.”
The government has downplayed the protests, with Zanu-PF spokesperson Farai Murapira dismissing them as insignificant. “Social media is not reality,” he said, arguing that the opposition was exaggerating the level of dissatisfaction in the country.
However, political analysts saw the shutdown as a strong statement. “The silence of the streets was louder than any protest could have been,” said political commentator Ibbo Mandaza.
Meanwhile, Vice-President Chiwenga has remained silent on the growing calls for him to take over, and the government insists there is no rift between him and Mnangagwa. However, behind closed doors, tensions within the ruling party may be simmering as political factions maneuver for power.
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