Warnings spread as Zim protests escalate
MASS shutdowns and stayaways have once again been called across Zimbabwe as protests in main cities escalated. Yesterday several Facebook and Twitter accounts in support of the mass protests gripping the nation called on all people to either join or stay away if they didn’t want to get hurt.
“There will be serious attacks on government properties and properties owned by Zanu-PF chiefs and supporters. Businesses in major cities are advised not to open on Monday and Tuesday,” one warning said.
A series of images depicting a man believed to be Zimbabwean stabbing and burning his country’s flag in solidarity with protests also emerged over the weekend. Reactions to the images were strong, leaving people shocked and upset.
@UnitedZim tweeted: “We, as Citizens United Zimbabwe, condemn this type of behaviour by any citizen of Zimbabwe. Flag is pride,” the group said.
Violent protests have hit Zimbabwe over the past few months with many standing in solidarity with #ThisFlag, a movement that has encouraged mass protests against ongoing corruption, high unemployment rates and economic problems plaguing the country.
It has been spearheaded by Pas- tor Evan Mawarire who encouraged citizens to bring change to the country.
Last week fierce clashes in Harare between police, army personnel and locals led to looting, violence and the eventual arrest of 67 people.
However a number of Zimbabwean news agencies have since reported that following the clashes, soldiers and police have agreed to join the ongoing protests.