US Embassy In Harare Issues Demonstration Alert

The United States Embassy in Harare has advised American nationals residing in Zimbabwe to avoid the Central Business District (CBD) in Harare and Bulawayo and to keep a low profile because of anticipated protests by political activists on 31 July.

In a statement, the Embassy also urged American nationals to immediately leave areas where demonstrations erupt as non-participating bystanders can unintentionally get caught in the middle of erupting violence. Part of the statement read:

Local political figures have called for a potentially large protest against the Zimbabwean government and corruption on July 31 while others have called for counter-protests. There is a real possibility for clashes between the opposing groups of protesters and security forces.

Past demonstrations have been met with aggressive tactics by police to suppress protests. Crackdowns by security forces in high-density areas leading up to and immediately following civil disturbances and internet/social media interruptions are possible.

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