Zimbabwean protesters defy police as demonstrations continue at Freedom Square – WATCH! The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) dispersed protesters at Robert Mugabe Square (Freedom Square) in Harare, but demonstrators remain defiant, continuing their protests against President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government.
Despite police crackdowns, protesters keep returning to Freedom Square, creating a cat-and-mouse situation between them and law enforcement. The demonstration, fueled by frustration over economic hardships, corruption, and political instability, has drawn a mix of young activists and elderly citizens demanding immediate change.
Protesters Stand Firm Despite Police Dispersal
One of the protesters, identified as Memory, vowed to stay put, declaring her readiness to sacrifice everything for the cause.
Zimbabwean protesters defy police
“If it means I’m dying here today, let it be. We want our country to be fixed. We can’t continue like this,” she said, her voice filled with determination.
Another protester, an elderly woman, expressed deep frustration over Mnangagwa’s governance, particularly his failure to curb corruption and revive Zimbabwe’s struggling economy.
“He wants to rule until 2030, doing what exactly? Corruption is everywhere. Our economy has collapsed. He must go now.”
While the police have forcibly removed protesters, they continue to trickle back into Robert Mugabe Square, signaling their unwavering commitment to their cause.
Watch:
Homeland or Death #M31Movement pic.twitter.com/VutjyiBkl0
— African (@ali_naka) March 31, 2025
Do come to town in your numbers, it’s your right to come and witness and participate… The time is now..#EDMustGo#M31Movement for our future. pic.twitter.com/19huqMHdcx
— Zimbabwe Bird (@Zim_Bird) March 31, 2025
Update: Harare
Citizens not backing down. The season of protests is here. The spirit is here. The cdes are here.
ED and Zviganandas out #M31Movement #gezaRevolution #ZimbabweYadzoka pic.twitter.com/iTEQrurtHf
— Victor Chimhutu (@DrVChimhutu) March 31, 2025
The Roots of the Unrest
The protest comes amid growing dissatisfaction with Mnangagwa’s rule, particularly regarding:
Economic Collapse: Zimbabwe continues to suffer from hyperinflation, job losses, and a weakening currency, making life increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens.
Rampant Corruption: Many Zimbabweans believe corruption at the highest levels of government is worsening the economic crisis.
Political Oppression: Opposition voices, activists, and independent media have faced intimidation, arrests, and censorship under Mnangagwa’s administration.
Unfulfilled Promises: When Mnangagwa took power in 2017, he pledged economic and political reforms. However, six years later, many feel conditions have worsened rather than improved.
Freedom Square: A Symbol of Resistance
Robert Mugabe Square—renamed Freedom Square by opposition activists—has become a symbol of resistance in Zimbabwe. The site has been used for political rallies, protests, and calls for democratic change.
“This place represents our fight for freedom,” said a young protester. “We won’t leave until we are heard.”
Police Response and Government Crackdown
The ZRP has increased its presence in Harare, deploying riot police to prevent large gatherings. Officers have used batons, tear gas, and water cannons to break up crowds, yet protesters keep returning.
So far, no official statement has been released by the Mnangagwa administration regarding the protests. However, sources suggest that authorities may be considering more aggressive action if the demonstrations persist.
A Growing Movement?
With tensions rising, analysts predict that these protests could gain momentum, especially if economic conditions continue to deteriorate. Zimbabwe has seen waves of anti-government demonstrations in recent years, often met with heavy-handed police responses.
Despite threats of arrests and violence, demonstrators remain determined to fight for change.
“They can chase us today, but we will come back tomorrow. We are fighting for our future,” said a protester.
As economic hardship worsens and public discontent grows, Freedom Square may remain a focal point for Zimbabwe’s struggle for justice and democracy.
