Zimbabwe Prepares for Nationwide ‘Stay Away’ Protest Against President Mnangagwa’s Term Extension

Opposition parties, civic groups and citizens plan a national shutdown on 31 July 2026 to protest a constitutional amendment that would extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term. The move follows a parliamentary vote on Amendment No. 3 and a legal challenge lodged in Zimbabwe’s Constitutional Court seeking to overturn the extension.

Businessman Wicknell Chivayo, a known ally of Mnangagwa, used social media to urge Zimbabweans to skip the demonstrations and focus on entrepreneurship, saying “make money, build your future.” His comments have drawn criticism from many who face high unemployment and rising prices, highlighting the economic dimension of the political tension.