Nearly 100 people were locked up after street protests against President Mnangagwa. The magistrate refused bail because he thought they might cause more trouble if released. He claimed letting them go would create "commotion" across the country.
The court heard these protesters gathered, planning to stir up violence. They allegedly wanted to march through Harare streets toward the State House to force out the president. Police say they found about 200 people at Robert Mugabe Square making threats against Mnangagwa. The group reportedly piled stones, bricks, plus tires along the road.
The demonstrations came after social media calls from ex-Zanu PF member Blessed Geza, who supports Vice President Chiwenga becoming president instead. Geza accused Mnangagwa of protecting criminals stealing millions from Zimbabwe's treasury. When police arrived, the protesters allegedly threw stones at officers, singing anti-police songs. Many took pictures they posted online, which helped identify additional suspects later.
Most arrestees face their next court date April 24. Three others have separate hearings. The magistrate emphasized public safety concerns behind his decision to keep everyone detained until trial.
The court heard these protesters gathered, planning to stir up violence. They allegedly wanted to march through Harare streets toward the State House to force out the president. Police say they found about 200 people at Robert Mugabe Square making threats against Mnangagwa. The group reportedly piled stones, bricks, plus tires along the road.
The demonstrations came after social media calls from ex-Zanu PF member Blessed Geza, who supports Vice President Chiwenga becoming president instead. Geza accused Mnangagwa of protecting criminals stealing millions from Zimbabwe's treasury. When police arrived, the protesters allegedly threw stones at officers, singing anti-police songs. Many took pictures they posted online, which helped identify additional suspects later.
Most arrestees face their next court date April 24. Three others have separate hearings. The magistrate emphasized public safety concerns behind his decision to keep everyone detained until trial.
