Kazembe Warns Security Forces Ready Ahead of Planned July 31 Protests

By Southerton Business Times | Harare

Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe says Zimbabwe's security services are prepared to respond to any unlawful activities linked to planned demonstrations and a nationwide shutdown scheduled for July 31, 2026.

His remarks come amid calls by some civil society groups and activists for peaceful protests against recent constitutional changes and the country's economic challenges. Speaking to the media, Kazembe said Zimbabwe remains governed by the rule of law and that law enforcement agencies would act to preserve peace and public order.

"This is a country governed by laws. This is a country with law enforcement agencies. I can assure you that nothing of that sort will happen. Law enforcement agents will be ready and waiting," he said.

Kazembe said citizens with grievances should use constitutional and legal mechanisms rather than engage in unlawful activities.

"People have spoken, people are happy, and things have been done constitutionally. Therefore, it would be unreasonable for anyone to think of doing anything unlawful on July 31," he said.

He added that while Zimbabwe's Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, authorities would act against any conduct deemed to violate the law.

"People can say whatever they want on social media. However, I can assure you that this is a peaceful country, and there will be peace and tranquillity come July 31," Kazembe said.

The minister's comments follow announcements by activists and civil society organisations calling for peaceful demonstrations and a nationwide shutdown on July 31. Among the organisers is the M31 Movement, which says the campaign is intended to protest the Constitutional Amendment Act No. 6 of 2026 and the country's economic conditions. The movement argues that the constitutional amendments alter Zimbabwe's governance framework and has urged citizens to participate in peaceful action.

Authorities have not approved any unlawful gatherings and have reiterated that public demonstrations must comply with the provisions of the Constitution and the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (MOPA), which regulates public assemblies and processions.

The planned mobilisation comes after activist Bhekimpilo Mbedzi was arrested on 15 July 2026 over allegations linked to organising opposition to the constitutional amendments. Police have not publicly linked Mbedzi's arrest directly to the planned July 31 demonstrations, and his legal matter remains before the courts. The Constitution of Zimbabwe guarantees the rights to freedom of assembly, association and expression, while also providing that these rights may be regulated by law in the interests of public safety, public order and national security.

As July 31 approaches, both the Government and organisers have maintained their respective positions, with authorities emphasising the need to comply with the law and organisers describing their planned actions as peaceful.

Kazembe Kazembe