Zimbabweans Protest Nationwide Against Mnangagwa's Governance, Economy Disrupted

Zimbabweans staged a nationwide stayaway protest on March 31, dubbed the Geza Revolution, to express discontent with President Emmerson Mnangagwa's administration, which faces accusations of corruption and economic mismanagement. The protest, organized by war veterans aligned with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga's faction, saw urban centers largely deserted as businesses and schools closed. Although the stayaway remained mostly peaceful, there were minor skirmishes in Harare, particularly at Robert Mugabe Square, where police used teargas to disperse small groups attempting to march. The protests reflect deep-seated dissatisfaction with Mnangagwa's rule and highlight internal factional struggles within the ruling Zanu-PF party, as some members push for a constitutional amendment to extend his presidency beyond 2028. Despite the low turnout for street demonstrations, the significant participation in the stayaway indicates widespread public frustration. Protest leader Blessed Geza has urged citizens not to be afraid and to openly oppose the government's actions.