Political tensions are rising in Zimbabwe after constitutional amendments opened the door for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in power beyond 2028.
The changes, signed into law on 7 July, remove presidential elections and extend parliamentary and presidential terms from five to seven years.
Mnangagwa, 83, is serving his second term, which was expected to end in 2028.
Under the amended system, he could remain in office until at least 2030.
Opposition groups have challenged the changes in court, arguing that they should have been put to a national referendum.
They accuse the ruling Zanu-PF party of weakening democracy to extend its 46-year hold on power.
Protest calls divide citizens
Calls for a national stayaway or demonstrations on Friday have circulated on social media.
The response has been mixed.
Harare trader Stephen Ngwere told AFP the amendments had reduced hopes that living conditions would improve.
“It’s now up to us to resist this regression into tyranny,” he said.
However, Ngwere had not decided whether he would join any protest.
Unemployed Harare resident Bruce Peter dismissed the demonstrations as an attempt by some opposition figures to regain political relevance.
Opposition backs stayaway
The newly formed People’s Coalition has been one of the main groups supporting the proposed stayaway.
The coalition was launched by prominent opposition figures while the amendments moved through the Zanu-PF-controlled Parliament.
Some activists have warned that unauthorised protests carry serious risks.
Zimbabwe’s government has previously been accused of suppressing dissent through arrests and intimidation.
About 100 people were arrested during small demonstrations against Mnangagwa in April 2025.
Churches demand referendum
The Zimbabwe Council of Churches has also called for a referendum.
It warned of “deepening national polarisation” and serious disagreement over the constitutional changes.
The organisation said any protests should remain peaceful.
It also urged authorities to avoid arbitrary arrests, intimidation, collective punishment or the use of force.
Zanu-PF argues that the amendments will provide political stability and policy continuity.
An International Monetary Fund review said Zimbabwe’s economy grew by 8.3% in 2025, supported by agriculture, mining and higher gold prices.
Mnangagwa took power in 2017 after a military-backed takeover ended Robert Mugabe’s 37-year rule.