Zimbabwe: Opposition demonstration in Harare July 16 /update 2

Event

Thousands of supporters of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) opposition party are holding a demonstration in front of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) in the capital Harare as of Monday, July 16, to demand free and fair elections. The protest has remained peaceful thus far, but localized traffic disruptions have been reported, with police advising drivers to avoid the Central Business District. Further protests are likely over the coming weeks as the country prepares for the general elections being held on July 30.

Context

After presidential and parliamentary elections on July 30, a presidential runoff election, if required, will be held on September 8. The ZEC said that international partners, including the UN, will help provide financial support for the elections, the first in Zimbabwe since Robert Mugabe stepped down as president in November 2017 after 37 years in power.

According to the MDC, the ZEC is refusing to allow the party access to voter rolls and the name of the company that will print ballot papers. Opposition leaders have said the elections will not be credible if they do not know how many ballots are being printed and who is possession of them. The MDC has threatened to hold daily protests until their demands are met.

Advice

Individuals in Zimbabwe, particularly in Harare, are advised to avoid large public gatherings, even those that seem peaceful, and monitor local developments.