Zimbabwe national shutdown: Citizens boycott work as police seal Harare City Centre

The streets of Zimbabwe’s major cities were noticeably empty on Friday as a national shutdown took hold. The People's Coalition, an alliance of civil rights groups and opposition parties, organized the boycott to protest recent legislative changes.

The mass stay-away follows the passing of a law that allows President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in power until 2030. The move adds two additional years to his original term, sparking what activists have dubbed the 'Constitutional Restoration Campaign.'

Security Forces Lock Down Major Hubs

Authorities responded to the planned protest with a massive display of force. In Harare, Africa Unity Square was completely cordoned off by riot police, mounted units, and water cannons, preventing any public gatherings from forming.

Local vendor James Kadara noted that the city centre felt like a military zone, observing that there were more armed officers than civilians on the streets. In Bulawayo, the heavy police presence resulted in significant school disruptions as parents kept their children at home.

Coalition Praises Non-Violent Response

Spokepeople for the People's Coalition confirmed that the majority of citizens respected the call to boycott work. Jacob Ngarivhume commended the public for their peaceful participation and urged them to continue operating within the framework of the law.

While the shutdown remained quiet, the atmosphere remains tense. Ngarivhume reiterated that the campaign against the rule extension would persist, calling for continued calm and non-violence from all supporters.

Regional Concerns Grow

The situation has also drawn attention across the border in South Africa. Activist Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma has recently criticized the South African government for failing to speak out against the alleged threats facing Zimbabwean activists who oppose the current administration.