27 Feb 2019 | 10:10 AM UTC
Zimbabwe: Pro-government rally in Harare March 2
Zanu-PF youth league plans pro-government rally in Harare on March 2; President Emmerson Mnangagwa to speak at the event
Event
The Zanu-PF youth league is planning to hold a pro-government rally in Harare on Saturday, March 2. Supporters are expected to gather at Robert Mugabe Square starting at 09:00 (local time) before marching to the Rainbow Towers hotel. President Emmerson Mnangagwa is expected to speak at the rally. Heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are anticipated around the event and along the march route.
Context
According to Zanu-PF leaders, the rally is being held in solidarity with President Mnangagwa and to show that he is the sole legitimate leader of Zimbabwe. Political tensions have been high since the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission declared incumbent President Mnangagwa the winner of the July 30 presidential elections. Opposition leader Nelson Chamisa has alleged that the election should be invalidated due to fraud.
Advice
Individuals in Harare are advised to monitor the situation, avoid any related public demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.