Zimbabwe: Authorities ban anti-government demonstration in Bulawayo August 19 /update 5

Event

Security forces were deployed en masse to Bulawayo on Monday, August 19, to put a halt to a planned anti-government demonstration. The protest was organized by the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), which accuses President Emmerson Mnangagwa's government of repression and economic mismanagement. Authorities cited security concerns as the basis for the ban. There were no reports of violence or casualties on Monday.

A heightened security presence is to be expected in Bulawayo over the coming hours. Similar protests are possible in the city over the near term.

Context

Security forces notably used tear gas to disperse a demonstration held in the capital Harare on August 16 after protesters defied a police ban. The MDC appealed the ban, but judges dismissed the challenge.

The MDC aimed at holding a mass rally to denounce the perceived corruption of government, as well as high unemployment rates, and a deteriorating economy. Opposition supporters are also calling for the release of six political activists who were allegedly abducted from their homes earlier in the week. Human rights groups accused government security agents of detaining and beating the activists ahead of the August 16 protest.

Advice

Individuals in Bulawayo 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.