Zimbabwe Republic Police is battling to cool down a wave of protests that are carrying taking place in Chitungwiza.
Chitungwiza is home to MDC Vice Chairman Job Wiwa Sikhala who has been at the fore front of calling for the removal of President Emmerson Mnangagwa by force.
Some reports indicate that the ZRP have besieged Sikhala’s home in St Mary’s, Chitungwiza.
Some protesters are holding banners written, ‘Emmerson Mnangagwa is worse than Corona Virus’ while others are written ‘Chibva Mnangagwa Chibva’ (Leave Mnangagwa Leave).
Reports reaching us also reveal that a Zupco Bus destined for Makoni was stoned (Picture is below).
Reports reaching us are that Job Sikhala has been questioned by the police. They suspect that he is the hand behind the protests. Sikhala has been fighting treason charges that the state levied against him. He made remarks that Mngangagwa was going to be forcefully removed from office while he was in Bikita. He was arrested by the police when he returned to Harare. He was taken back to Bikita for trial at Bikita Magistrate Court.
His trial took longer than expected as he was released on bail. He was later acquitted in Masvingo last month is a trial marred by protests and street marches by his supporters. There was also a heavy police presence in Masvingo during the trial.
Zimbabweans have been resorting to destruction of property as a way of airing their dissatisfaction. They target government property and property of those who are involved in the administration of the state. Recently protesters were targeting Zuva Service Stations which are believed to be owned by President Mnangagwa. Protesters also used to target Choppies Supermarkets which were coowned by former Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko.
Mnangagwa’s government has been responding to any form of protests with a heavy hand. This form of response stated on August 1, 2018 when the army was called in to Harare Central Business District to disperse protesters who were calling for the releasing of results following the July 31 elections.
