Protests against plan to extend President's term in Zimbabwe blocked

According to reports in the national press, protests were held in the capital, Harare, and other major cities against the plan to extend Mnangagwa's term until 2030.

Security forces intervened heavily to block the protests, which were organized by independence war veterans.

While security measures were increased in Harare, Bulawayo, and other cities, businesses, schools, and marketplaces remained largely closed, and police teams patrolled the empty streets.

In a statement issued by the police, it was stated that the situation in the country is currently calm and that the public is encouraged to continue their daily activities.

The statement noted that a small group of protesters in western Harare chanted "We reject 2030," and that police dispersed the crowd using tear gas.

Some analysts state that despite the protests being largely blocked, the ongoing economic stagnation could send a strong message to the government.

Political analyst Ibbo Mandaza commented, "The public's work stoppage is a strong message from the people of Zimbabwe. Those in power must take this situation seriously."

The ruling Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF) party announced in January its plan to extend Mnangagwa's term by two more years.

This move by Mnangagwa, who came to power following a military coup in 2017 and is currently serving his final term, is being met with backlash from the opposition and his former allies.

Although Mnangagwa has stated many times that he does not intend to extend his term, war veterans argue that he is trying to carry out this plan through proxies.

The Constitution of Zimbabwe allows presidents to serve a maximum of two terms, totaling 10 years. However, the amendment proposed by ZANU-PF aims to extend this period until 2030.