Harare witnessed a heavy police deployment Monday, effectively quelling planned demonstrations by war veterans against President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s potential extended rule.
The ruling ZANU-PF party’s proposition to extend Mnangagwa’s term until 2030 ignited widespread discontent.
Veteran leader Blessed Geza, a former Mnangagwa supporter, spearheaded the protest call, accusing him of power-grabbing.
Anticipating unrest, businesses across major cities shuttered, and car dealerships cleared showrooms.
Police patrols filled the normally bustling streets of Harare and Bulawayo, leaving many businesses, schools, and vendors closed.
A police statement declared the nation “peaceful,” urging citizens to resume normal activities.
However, tear gas was deployed on Harare’s outskirts to disperse a small group protesting the “2030” extension plan.
Political analyst Ibbo Mandaza suggested the economic shutdown, despite limited street protests, sent a powerful message to the government.
Veteran leader Geza remained publicly silent throughout Monday morning.
The veterans, still influential within ZANU-PF, appear to be filling a political void left by a weakened opposition.
Mnangagwa has repeatedly denied intentions to extend his presidency, but veterans allege he’s acting through proxies.
Zimbabwe’s constitution currently limits presidential terms to two five-year periods.