Zimbabwe's Succession Battle Complicates Growth Push

A succession battle is simmering within the ruling party in Zimbabwe, resulting in further uncertainty for businesses in an already fragile economy.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa's allies want to amend the constitution to extend his term by at least two years, while a rival faction is backing Vice President Constantino Chiwenga to take over.

Business in Harare came to a grinding halt on 31 March after Blessed Geza, a former ZANU-PF central committee member, called for nationwide mass protests against Mnangagwa.

The call by Geza, a Chiwenga ally, shut down Zimbabwe's capital Harare, with businesses closed and streets deserted pictured.

Hundreds of people took to the streets and barricaded roads while singing songs against the 2030 Agenda, a movement plotting to extend Mnangagwa's term by at least two years. Over 100 were arrested and charged with participating in unsanctioned demonstrations.