12 Aug 2024 | 02:59 PM UTC
Zimbabwe: Harare to host annual SADC summit and additional meetings Aug. 13-17 amid increased political tensions
Increased security likely amid SADC summit and meetings in Harare, Zimbabwe, Aug. 13-17. Disruptions, protests likely; clashes possible.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) will hold its annual summit, including the meeting of Heads of State in Harare, Aug. 13-17. Leaders from Angola, Botswana, Comoros, DRC, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania and Zambia will attend. The summit, as well as several peripheral meetings of senior government officials, will be held at the New Parliament Building, the Harare International Conference Centre, and the University of Zimbabwe campus.
Localized traffic disruptions and movement restrictions are likely near summit venues. Authorities will likely implement a safety zone around Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE), central hotels, and government institutions. Heightened security is almost certain throughout Harare. Measures such as checkpoints and identity and vehicle checks are possible. Nationwide protests and counter-protests are likely, especially in large urban areas; clashes and arrests are likely during any rallies that materialize. Officials may impose additional restrictive measures, such as temporary curfews, internet shutdowns, or entry and exit restrictions, to deter violence or in the event of significant unrest.
Avoid discussing politically sensitive topics in public. Allow additional time to reach destinations in Harare during the aforementioned period. Plan for increased security checks at HRE, government buildings, and public venues. Exercise caution near any demonstration sites that materialize. If violence erupts, leave the area immediately and take refuge in a secure, nongovernmental building. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent violence-affected areas. Monitor local media for details concerning political gatherings, as organizers may not announce plans in advance. Refrain from wearing yellow clothing due to its association with the lead opposition party (CCC). Follow instructions issued by local authorities. Leave immediately and take refuge in a secure, nongovernmental building if violence erupts. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.
Domestic and foreign politicians, civil society groups, and NGOs have called for the summit's cancellation over recent arrests of political opponents. Since June, Zimbabwean authorities have reportedly arrested over a hundred opposition supporters, including at least 78 members of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), the largest Zimbabwean opposition party. At least two foreign nationals, a Czech and Ugandan citizen, have also been arrested. Reports of torture have also emerged.
