20 Nov 2018 | 04:41 PM UTC
Zimbabwe: Opposition party to rally in Harare November 21
Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) call for supporters to rally in Harare on November 21 during commission hearing; heightened security measures expected
Event
Leaders of the opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) party are calling for supporters to gather in Harare on Wednesday, November 21, during a commission hearing on violent protests in August. MDC leader Nelson Chamisa and the party’s deputy chairman Tendai Biti have been asked to testify before the commission. Heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are expected around the rally.
Context
The commission is investigating the deaths of six MDC protesters who were killed during demonstrations in Harare on August 1. Zimbabwean military generals have denied that soldiers were responsible for shooting the protesters and claim Chamisa instigated the violent demonstration. Political tensions have been high since the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) declared incumbent President Mnangagwa winner of the July 30 presidential election. Chamisa has alleged that the election should be invalidated due to incidents of theft and fraud.
Advice
Individuals in Harare are advised to avoid all demonstrations, obey all instructions issued by the local authorities, and closely monitor the situation.
