A quiet day in Harare after Zimbabwe’s shutdown call

Harare, Zimbabwe – Harare’s streets have been quieter than usual as residents wait to see whether a call for a nationwide shutdown against constitutional changes would lead to protests.The first thing that stood out was the traffic.Cars on the roads leading into the city centre on Friday were fewer than usual. The morning rush hour that normally fills the capital’s streets was missing, and the journey into Harare’s central business district was quicker than expected.For a normal working day in Zimbabwe, the difference was noticeable.Police were deployed across Harare as opposition groups and civil society activists called for a nationwide shutdown over constitutional changes. Critics said the amendments could extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s time in office until 2030.Across the city, the security presence was difficult to miss.Police blocked access to a popular park where people often gather, making it clear that no one would be allowed inside. Nearby, water cannon trucks were parked in an open space that has been used for previous demonstrations.An uneasy morningBy about 8:30am (06:30 GMT), parts of Harare’s central business district were slowly coming to life.In areas where ...