Today, Zimbabwe saw empty streets as people across the country chose to stay home in protest. They are angry at President Mnangagwa’s government over corruption, a bad economy, and harsh rule.
The protest, called the “Geza Resistance,” shut down cities and towns. Schools, shops and offices stayed closed from Harare to Bulawayo, and from Beitbridge to Chirundu. Even market traders, who usually work every day, joined the protest.
Former freedom fighters, who normally support the ruling party, surprised everyone by backing this protest. This shows big problems inside the government, with different groups now fighting each other for power.
Police watched closely but didn’t stop most people. There were only small problems in Harare when police broke up a group trying to meet at Robert Mugabe Square. Unlike before, soldiers didn’t come out to control the protest.
“The war veterans may have their own political motives, but the people are sending a message: they agree that Mnangagwa has failed,” said one political analyst. “This is a convergence of frustration, and it’s a warning of bigger unrest ahead.”
The protest hurt Zimbabwe’s weak economy even more. With businesses closed, no money moved in the already struggling country where many people can’t find jobs.
Main opposition leader Nelson Chamisa didn’t join today’s protest. His supporters say he doesn’t want to get involved in fights between different government groups.
President Mnangagwa recently fired some army and police leaders, trying to keep control. But today’s big protest shows he might be losing his grip.
As night comes, Zimbabwe faces big questions. People are clearly tired of their problems, and even some government supporters are turning against the president. No one knows if this protest will lead to real change, but it’s clear that more and more Zimbabweans want something different.
The next few days will show whether this protest was just one big event, or the start of real change for Zimbabwe’s future.
