Zimbabwe: Possible opposition party rally in Harare November 26 /update 1

Event

Nelson Chamisa, leader of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) opposition party, may testify on Monday, November 26, before a commission investigating post-election violence that took place in August. Chamisa was expected to appear on November 21 but failed to do so. If he does appear on Monday, supporters are likely to gather in the capital Harare during the hearing, as they had previously been called to do on November 21. If such gatherings occur, heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are to be expected.

Context

The commission is investigating the deaths of six MDC protesters 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. Chamisa has so far refused to appear before the commission, claiming that President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his deputy Constantino Chiwenga should testify as well.

Political tensions have been high since the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) declared incumbent President Mnangagwa the winner of the July 30 presidential elections. Chamisa has alleged that the election should be invalidated due to fraud.

Advice

Individuals in Harare are advised to avoid all demonstrations, obey all instructions issued by the local authorities, and closely monitor the situation.