Anarchy in Zimbabwe? Torture, Abduction and a “Tahirir Square” type demonstration

Torture, Abduction and a “Tahirir Square” type protest. Is this is a reality today for Harare, Zimbabwe? it is for many, but others are celebrating the end of a 37 dictatorship.

eTN is on the ground undercover in Zimbabwe and communicating with citizens who whilst elated at the prospect of change, are afraid that long guarded and enshrined legacy of constitutionalism in Zimbabwe is now finally giving in to military supervised anarchy.

“The situation on the ground is absolutely getting worse. The African Union Agenda 2063 talks about silencing the gun but as a nation and as Africa we are witnessing Zimbabwe descend into chaos,” said a citizen who is also a high ranking official.

“This is a military coup which has been rejected by the army yet now they want to legitimise it by mobilizing people to depose a constitutional government. A lot of people have been detained and are being tortured. No one is coming to report on this. People are being abducted from their houses. It is an extremely dangerous situation even to be known for commenting. Armored vehicles are in the streets.”

“There is going to be a” Tahrir Square” demo and march today, after this it will be a turning point – everyone is carefully monitoring issues on the ground.”

Also Mugabe’s long-time allies, the war veterans, are hosting a national rally in Harare, where Zimbabweans from various political parties, religions and elsewhere are expected to attend.

In a dramatic twist of events all ten Zanu PF party ruled provinces have passed a vote of no confidence on President Robert Mugabe, and declared the 93-year-old leader – who has been in office for 37 years – too old and incapacitated to lead both Zanu PF and government. This means President Robert Mugabe doesn’t even have the support of his own party anymore.

There is an ongoing hunt for senior government leaders by the Zimbabwe military.

The U.S. Department of State advises U.S. citizens in Harare that two marches are planned for Saturday, November 18, 2017, convening at Freedom Square/Robert Mugabe Square (opposite Rainbow Towers) at 9:00 and 10:00 a.m.  U.S. citizens are encouraged to avoid Harare’s Central Business District.

As the political situation in Zimbabwe remains uncertain, US citizens should remain safely at home or in your accommodations as much as possible.  If you must go out, use caution, stick to routes familiar to you, and travel during daylight hours.  Be prepared for traffic checkpoints.

U.S. citizens should:

·       Remain indoors in a safe location;

·       Avoid demonstrations and all public gatherings;

·       Have extra food, water and medication on hand;

·       Establish a communication plan with your friends and family so they know when to expect to hear from you;

·       Review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings and local events, and monitor local news stations for updates;

·       Be vigilant and take steps to enhance your personal security; and

·       Remain alert for potentially dangerous situations.

Harare International Airport remains open, but some flights have been canceled. Passengers should check with the airline before going to the airport.

eTN Tourist evaluation: Most tourists visit Victoria Falls. The situation in that part of Zimbabwe seems to be normal and almost untouched from the problems in the capital of the country, Harare. Due to uncertainty in the country tourists should be aware of changes that could arise suddenly and unexpected.