Zimbabwe: War veterans call for anti-Mugabe protests Nov. 21 /update 13

Event

On Tuesday, November 21, the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association called for mass anti-Mugabe protests to take place in Harare immediately. It remains unclear if the call will be widely followed, however, unconfirmed reports indicate that demonstrators are currently gathering near Mugabe’s residence. A future protest is already scheduled to take place on Wednesday, November 22.

Though Zimbabwean soldiers remain stationed at several key sites throughout Harare, commercial establishments in the capital and at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE) are reportedly operating normally, and the environment is calm. A heightened security presence and consequent transportation disruptions are expected, especially in Harare.

Context

This call for protests comes amid continued uncertainty regarding Mugabe's political future. On Sunday, November 19, Mugabe announced that he would remain president following discussions with the country's military leaders, encouraging all members of the ruling ZANU-PF party to work to resolve the party's internal differences in a peaceful manner. However, on Monday, the ZANU-PF announced it was summoning members of parliament to discuss starting the impeachment process. Unconfirmed reports on Monday also alleged that Mugabe drafted his letter of resignation after negotiating a deal with the military generals.

Previously, on November 15, Zimbabwe's military took control of state broadcaster ZBC, where a military spokesperson read a statement noting that the takeover was intended to "deal with those committing crimes" against the Zimbabwean people. The military promised to keep the public safe, while advising individuals to limit movements, and noting that "any provocation will be met with an appropriate response." Mugabe has been under house arrest ever since, with the military seemingly taking control of the government - despite their resistance to admitting that a “coup” is taking place.

These events transpired in an already tense political climate in Zimbabwe. On November 6, Mugabe fired Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa; an action widely seen as clearing the way for President Mugabe's wife, Grace Mugabe, to take over the position. Mnangagwa reportedly returned to Zimbabwe on November 15 or 16, and is believed to be favored by the Zimbabwean military to assume the presidency.

Advice

Individuals in Zimbabwe, particularly in Harare, are advised to closely monitor the situation and avoid large public gatherings and unnecessary movements until the situation has stabilized. If outside travel is necessary, individuals should anticipate delays at military checkpoints and should cooperate with any requests made by officials.