A Harare magistrate, Isheanesu Matova, has refused bail to 95 individuals accused of organizing and participating in unauthorized protests against Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa on March 31st.
The court sided with the prosecution’s claim that releasing the group might incite further demonstrations.
Magistrate Matova emphasized that keeping the suspects in custody was necessary to maintain public safety, expressing concern that their release could lead to renewed mobilization and possible coordination with other protest leaders.
Prosecutors allege that the accused gathered at Freedom Square—also known as Robert Mugabe Square—with plans to march through central Harare. According to submitted court documents, the group was reportedly chanting anti-government slogans, including demands for President Mnangagwa’s resignation.
Authorities also claim that the protesters were creating barricades out of stones, tyres, and bricks along Robert Mugabe Road. The situation escalated when security forces confronted the crowd, which had grown to roughly 200 people. Law enforcement reported being pelted with various objects during the confrontation.
The state argued that many demonstrators filmed and photographed the protest activities, later sharing them across multiple social media platforms. These digital posts reportedly helped authorities identify participants, leading to at least one suspect’s arrest at his home.
Officials believe the protest was influenced by online messages from Blessed Geza, a former ZANU-PF member now in exile, who is known for his support of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga. Geza has publicly criticized President Mnangagwa’s leadership, accusing it of corruption and economic mismanagement.
The 95 individuals are scheduled to return to court on April 24 for further hearings. Meanwhile, three others will face separate legal proceedings. The group is being charged under Zimbabwean laws related to unauthorized public gatherings and alleged incitement to violence.
The case has garnered national attention, reflecting the country’s ongoing struggle between civil liberties and state control in a politically polarized environment.
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