08 May 2022 | 10:38 AM UTC
Zimbabwe: Multiple groups call for nationwide shutdown strike May 9
Multiple groups call for nationwide shutdown strike in Zimbabwe May 9. Increased security reported in Harare. Protests, violence possible.
Event
Multiple civil society groups have called for a nationwide shutdown strike May 9, urging all individuals to stay at home. Student, nurse, and teacher unions, as well as other trade union groups, have lent their support to the action. The action is to demand the government take action against a range of socio-economic issues including inflation, corruption, increasing transport costs, and the poor state of healthcare facilities among other demands.
As of May 8, security forces have been placed on high alert nationwide. A considerably increased police presence is in place in the capital, Harare, especially in the downtown area, amid concerns that protest action could accompany the shutdown.
Should the shutdown strike go ahead, widespread disruptions to commercial, transport, healthcare, and government services are likely, as are disruptions at educational institutions. While it is unclear if the organizers will force shops to close during the strike, business owners may opt to suspend their operations as a precaution.
Authorities will almost certainly remain deployed along key thoroughfares and near government buildings. Should protests materialize, security forces will likely resort to forcible measures; Zimbabwean police are known to move quickly and decisively to quell any dissent, including the use of live ammunition. During widespread protests against fuel price increases in January 2019, a government crackdown on protesters led to at least 12 deaths and hundreds of arrests. Disruptions to urban and intercity road travel, business operations, and telecommunications are likely amid significant bouts of civil unrest or preemptive security operations.
Advice
Reconfirm business appointments and travel arrangements; plan for significant disruptions May 9. Avoid all possible demonstrations and areas where security forces appear to be deploying due to the threat of unrest. If crowds form, leave the area immediately. Heed the instructions of security personnel.
