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Despite isolated intimidation, stay away continues
Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition
April 24, 2003

The Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition commends the majority of Zimbabweans who have heeded a call by the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) to participate in a stay away which began yesterday, April 23, 2003.

Largely, the stay away has been observed, with the ZCTU estimating at least 60% success nationally. An even greater success rate was reported in the major towns of Harare and Bulawayo, with most banks, major shops and food outlets closed in both towns. A more detailed national perspective is provided below.

The extent to which workers and businesses are following the call to stay away demonstrates that the majority of Zimbabweans recognise the need to work together and develop constructive solutions to the multi-layered economic and governance crisis currently facing Zimbabwe. The Coalition applauds the maturity exhibited by the majority of Zimbabweans who have peacefully heeded this call to action. This is an important step towards achieving the national dialogue necessary to work towards a transitional phase and develop a democratic Zimbabwe. The Coalition commends the ZCTU and the people of Zimbabwe for working together on one crucial step of the long road towards restoring good governance, peace and stability to our country.

Stay Away Review— Day Two: Thursday April 24 2003
In most parts of the country, the second day of the ZCTU-called stay away has be peaceful, but there were reports of intimidation in Bindura, Manghura and Masvingo, where managers and shop owners were ordered by police to open their businesses. In Kadoma, the manager of Berkeley’s Bank was arrested because his bank was not open.

Below is a situation review of some of the major towns in the country

Bindura reported that most businesses were open, following intimidation of business owners and managers. It is reported that members of the police and CID were instructing businesses to open.

Bulawayo reported even greater participation in the stay away than on the first day, with all major banks, groceries and even food outlets closed.

Chegutu reported a largely successful stay away, with participation of banks, shops and groceries on a par with the first day.

Chitungwiza reported large participation on the second day of the stay away, similar to that of day one. Most businesses, shops and banks were closed.

Harare reported significant participation in the stay away, with many observers indicating that even more businesses were closed as compared with the first day. The city was largely peaceful. However, riot police were called in to monitor the situation at CABS Bank on First Street in downtown Harare. The bank opened and was mobbed by people hoping to collect their salaries.

Kadoma reported that most businesses opened. This followed a systematic sweep by members of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) to intimidate business owners and managers into opening their doors.

Masvingo reported that the stay away not observed at all. This is largely attributed to a large presence of the uniformed forces in the town. Soldiers patrolled the commuter omnibus ranks, for example, to ensure that the combies operated and carried passengers to work. On the first day of the stay away, businesses started closed and then later opened. The ZCTU had hoped that there would be greater participation today. In Masvingo the March stay away was completely observed. However, since then it is reported that members of the CID, ZRP and Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) have been moving about the town asking business owners and managers why they did not open on March 18 and 19. During this week, there has been an increase in the army and police presence. Many business operators have been instructed that if they close during this stay away, workers and managers alike will be dragged to work.

Mutare reported somewhat improved participation as compared to the first day, with approximately 60% of businesses participating.

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Crisis in Zimbabwe is a grouping of civil society organisations and coalitions whose vision is a democratic Zimbabwe. The Coalition’s mandate is to address the twin questions of governance and legitimacy.

Tel/Fax: +263 4 747817
Email: info@crisis.co.zw

Visit the Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition fact sheet

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