War veterans spoke out yesterday against Monday's planned protests. They called these protests dangerous actions that might spark violence in the country. They asked everyone to stay united and reject what they termed "disruptive elements." Business groups, bus companies, and teachers also raised red flags about how these protests could harm the economy, pointing to past events as proof.
Douglas Mahiya from Zanu PF talked tough about these protests. He shared his views right after he started a new fund and housing program in Matabeleland South. He blasted people trying to block national progress. He promised these troublemakers would face consequences if they kept pushing for chaos.
Many groups across Zimbabwe have abandoned the protest plans. President Mnangagwa asked citizens to stick to their normal activities on Thursday. He warned about certain people he called "chameleon-like" who want to create problems. Last week, many businesses began telling their workers and members to ignore calls for protests.
The teachers' union made it clear they want no part in any protests. "We have totally nothing to do with that," said Goodwill Taderera from the Zimbabwe Teachers Association yesterday. He stressed that they follow the law and discuss issues through proper channels. All teachers should report to work Monday just like any other day, he added.
Retail stores worry about what might happen if protests go forward. Dr. Denford Mutashu from the retail group CZR expressed deep concern about the planned events. He noted that past protests often led to unexpected problems, including closed businesses and hardships for regular people. He pushed for talks instead of street actions.
"Dialogue remains the most effective way to address national concerns," Dr. Mutashu stated. He explained how stability helps businesses thrive and urged all groups—government, businesses, and others—to meet and find real solutions together. The retail sector provides essential goods and supports thousands of jobs across Zimbabwe.
Bus companies promised plenty of transportation on Monday. Dr. Samson Nhanhanga said buses will run at all pickup spots in cities and towns nationwide. He asked police to help buses travel freely and protect them from any violence. The mining group also sent messages telling miners to focus on their work and avoid distractions.
Business leaders in different areas pledged to open as usual. A Kadoma businessman said he met with others who agreed not to listen to protest organizers. Market traders at Glen View Complex, one of Harare's biggest trading centers, plan normal operations. Their leader mentioned that 2,500+ traders depend on daily sales to support their families.
Youth groups advised young people not to join the protests. They warned that protest leaders often stay safely away from danger. A religious council asked church members to report any suspicious activities to the police. They specifically mentioned watching for weapons, gas storage, or signs of planned demonstrations in their areas.
Police started investigating several car fires early Friday morning. Between midnight and 4 a.m., vehicles burned at business locations in Avondale, Highlands, Newlands, and Goromonzi. According to Police Commissioner Paul Nyathi, someone used gasoline to set moving cars on fire. The suspects quickly jumped into waiting vehicles and escaped after starting the fires.
Douglas Mahiya from Zanu PF talked tough about these protests. He shared his views right after he started a new fund and housing program in Matabeleland South. He blasted people trying to block national progress. He promised these troublemakers would face consequences if they kept pushing for chaos.
Many groups across Zimbabwe have abandoned the protest plans. President Mnangagwa asked citizens to stick to their normal activities on Thursday. He warned about certain people he called "chameleon-like" who want to create problems. Last week, many businesses began telling their workers and members to ignore calls for protests.
The teachers' union made it clear they want no part in any protests. "We have totally nothing to do with that," said Goodwill Taderera from the Zimbabwe Teachers Association yesterday. He stressed that they follow the law and discuss issues through proper channels. All teachers should report to work Monday just like any other day, he added.
Retail stores worry about what might happen if protests go forward. Dr. Denford Mutashu from the retail group CZR expressed deep concern about the planned events. He noted that past protests often led to unexpected problems, including closed businesses and hardships for regular people. He pushed for talks instead of street actions.
"Dialogue remains the most effective way to address national concerns," Dr. Mutashu stated. He explained how stability helps businesses thrive and urged all groups—government, businesses, and others—to meet and find real solutions together. The retail sector provides essential goods and supports thousands of jobs across Zimbabwe.
Bus companies promised plenty of transportation on Monday. Dr. Samson Nhanhanga said buses will run at all pickup spots in cities and towns nationwide. He asked police to help buses travel freely and protect them from any violence. The mining group also sent messages telling miners to focus on their work and avoid distractions.
Business leaders in different areas pledged to open as usual. A Kadoma businessman said he met with others who agreed not to listen to protest organizers. Market traders at Glen View Complex, one of Harare's biggest trading centers, plan normal operations. Their leader mentioned that 2,500+ traders depend on daily sales to support their families.
Youth groups advised young people not to join the protests. They warned that protest leaders often stay safely away from danger. A religious council asked church members to report any suspicious activities to the police. They specifically mentioned watching for weapons, gas storage, or signs of planned demonstrations in their areas.
Police started investigating several car fires early Friday morning. Between midnight and 4 a.m., vehicles burned at business locations in Avondale, Highlands, Newlands, and Goromonzi. According to Police Commissioner Paul Nyathi, someone used gasoline to set moving cars on fire. The suspects quickly jumped into waiting vehicles and escaped after starting the fires.
