Zimbabwe: Opposition party gathering for rally in Masvingo March 20

Event

The opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) is gathering for an election rally in Masvingo March 20. CCC supporters are gathering at the Rujeko Open Grounds 11:00-16:00. Thousands of people may attend. Local authorities had originally banned the CCC from holding rallies at multiple venues in Masvingo, stating that those locations had been booked for events by the ruling ZANU-PF party, which is also holding a rally in Masvingo March 20.

Given the CCC rally is an opposition event, please will almost certainly deploy heavily to monitor the rally; localized disruptions are likely. Police will also likely move swiftly and decisively to disperse the rally for any alleged infringements of the law; violence is, therefore, possible and has occurred at previous CCC rallies. In addition, the possibility of clashes between CCC and ZANU-PF supporters cannot be discounted.

Context

Zimbabwe will hold by-elections March 26 ahead of the general elections scheduled in 2023. 28 MPs and 122 council seats will be elected March 26.

Pre-election periods are usually tense in Zimbabwe. Clashes regularly break out between opposition supporters and security personnel and between opposing political groups during such gatherings. Most violence is usually directed towards opposition supporters.

Advice

Avoid the rally March 20 due to the possibility of violence. Exercise caution near the rally sites. Leave immediately and take refuge in a secure, nongovernmental building if violence erupts. Follow instructions issued by local authorities.