People across Manicaland ignored calls for stay-away protests against the government. Towns like Mutare, Rusape, Nyanga, Buhera, Chipinge, Mutasa, and Chimanimani saw normal daily activities continue without interruption. Residents went to work as usual, and social activities carried on throughout the region. No violence or pressure to participate happened anywhere.
Bus stations buzzed with travelers heading to different places. Vendors sold their goods at markets and bought produce from farmers for resale. All shops remained open in Mutare, the main city of the province. The Forbes Border Post operated normally with traders and trucks moving freely between countries. Students attended holiday classes without any problems.
Stephen Chochi from Zimta Park called the protest idea misguided because most people run small businesses. He pointed out that losing income makes it hard to pay school fees and rent later. Miriam Mhlanga of Sakubva said stay-aways fail because everyone needs to earn money to feed their families. She questioned how anyone could expect to shop without having money to pay.
Business owner Chido Chikumba expressed disappointment about the protest calls. She employs several workers and believes shutting down hurts both the economy and innocent citizens. Chikumba encouraged everyone to ignore the calls and continue with their regular activities. She emphasized building the country forward rather than backward.
Bus stations buzzed with travelers heading to different places. Vendors sold their goods at markets and bought produce from farmers for resale. All shops remained open in Mutare, the main city of the province. The Forbes Border Post operated normally with traders and trucks moving freely between countries. Students attended holiday classes without any problems.
Stephen Chochi from Zimta Park called the protest idea misguided because most people run small businesses. He pointed out that losing income makes it hard to pay school fees and rent later. Miriam Mhlanga of Sakubva said stay-aways fail because everyone needs to earn money to feed their families. She questioned how anyone could expect to shop without having money to pay.
Business owner Chido Chikumba expressed disappointment about the protest calls. She employs several workers and believes shutting down hurts both the economy and innocent citizens. Chikumba encouraged everyone to ignore the calls and continue with their regular activities. She emphasized building the country forward rather than backward.
