Zimbabwe: Presidential inauguration on August 12 /update 8

Event

The inauguration ceremony for incumbent President Emmerson Mnangagwa will be held in Harare on Sunday, August 12. President Mnangagwa is slated to be sworn in at the National Sports Stadium in Harare at 10:30 (local time). Protests by opposition supporters are possible in the days leading to the ceremony, as the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) is expected to file an official complain disputing election results on Friday, August 10. A heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions are anticipated in the vicinity of any demonstrations or political events.

Context

On August 3, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) declared incumbent President Emmerson winner of the July 30 presidential elections. According to results, Mnangagwa garnered 2.46 million votes, while runner-up Nelson Chamisa secured 2.15 million votes. The July 30 elections were the first in Zimbabwe since Robert Mugabe stepped down as president in November 2017 after 37 years in power.

Advice

Individuals in Zimbabwe and especially in Harare are advised to avoid all demonstrations, and closely monitor the situation. Be prepared to shelter in place in case of further violence, which could flare up with little warning.