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{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2019}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2020}}
{{Use British English|date=January 2019}}
{{Use British English|date=January 2019}}
{{Infobox civil conflict
{{Infobox civil conflict|partof=|image=|caption=|date=14 January 2019 - ongoing|place=[[Zimbabwe]]|causes=130% increase in fuel prices|goals=Elimination of the fuel price increase|methods=[[Civil resistance]], [[Demonstration (people)|demonstrations]], [[protest march]]es, [[riot]]ing, [[picketing]]|result=<!---This is a simplified list involving the main players excluding foreign involvement--->|side1=* [[Movement for Democratic Change – Tsvangirai|MDC-T]]
|partof=
* [[Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions]]|side2=[[ZANU-PF]]-led government|leadfigures1=*|leadfigures2=*|casualties1={{unbulleted list
|image=
⚫
| '''Arrests:''' 600+<ref name="msn800">{{Cite web |url=https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/zimbabwe-police-arrest-600-in-harsh-crackdown-on-protests/ar-BBSjdIr |title=Zimbabwe police arrest 600 in harsh crackdown on protests |website=MSN |language=en-US |access-date=2019-01-16}}</ref>
|caption=
| '''Injuries:''' 107<ref name="msn800" />
|date=14 January 2019 – 17 January 2019<br />({{Age in years, months, weeks and days|year1=2019|month1=01|day1=14|year2=2019|month2=01|day2=17}})

|place=[[Zimbabwe]]

|causes=130% increase in fuel prices
| '''Deaths:''' 5-8<ref name="zimD">{{Cite web |url=https://www.thezimbabwedaily.com/news/305134-eight-killed-and-200-detained-in-zimbabwe-crackdown-on-fuel-price-protests-amnesty-international.html |title=‘Eight killed and 200 detained in Zimbabwe crackdown on fuel price protests’ – Amnesty International |date=15 January 2019 |website=The Zimbabwe Daily |language=en-US |access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref><ref name="msn" /><ref name="busLiveP">{{Cite web |url=https://www.businesslive.co.za/bd/world/africa/2019-01-15-panicky-zimbabwe-government-shuts-down-internet/ |title=Panicky Zimbabwe government shuts down internet |last=Smaita |first=Kevin |date=15 January 2019 |website=www.businesslive.co.za |language=en |access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref>
|goals=Elimination of the fuel price increase.
|methods=[[Civil resistance]], [[Demonstration (people)|demonstrations]], [[protest march]]es, [[riot]]ing, [[picketing]]
|result=<!---This is a simplified list involving the main players excluding foreign involvement--->
|side1={{unbulleted list|{{flagicon image|Flag of the Movement for Democratic Change.svg}} [[Movement for Democratic Change – Tsvangirai|MDC-T]]|{{flagicon image}} [[Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions]]}}
|side2={{unbulleted list|{{flagicon image|Flag of ZANU-PF.svg}} [[ZANU-PF]]-led government}}
|leadfigures1=
|leadfigures2=
⚫
|casualties1={{unbulleted list
⚫
| '''Arrests:''' 600+<ref name="msn800">{{Cite web |url=https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/zimbabwe-police-arrest-600-in-harsh-crackdown-on-protests/ar-BBSjdIr |title=Zimbabwe police arrest 600 in harsh crackdown on protests |website=MSN |language=en-US |access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref>
| '''Injuries:''' 172<ref name=":1">{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/zimbabwe-politics-idUSL8N1ZH0Q0|title=UPDATE 2-Zimbabwe doctors treat 68 for gunshot wounds, police...|last=Dzirutwe|first=MacDonald|date=17 January 2019|work=Reuters|access-date=17 January 2019|language=en}}</ref>
| '''Deaths:''' 12<ref name="moneyWeb">{{Cite web |url=https://www.moneyweb.co.za/news-fast-news/death-toll-from-zimbabwe-protests-rises-to-12-rights-body-says/ |title=Death toll from Zimbabwe protests rises to 12, rights body says | date= 20 January 2019 |website=MoneyWeb |language=en-ZA |access-date=21 January 2019}}</ref>
| campaignbox =
| campaignbox =
}}
⚫
}}|casualties2={{unbulleted list
|casualties2={{unbulleted list
| '''Deaths:''' 1<ref name="busLiveP" />
| campaignbox =
| | campaignbox =
}}}}
}}
}}


The '''Zimbabwe fuel protests''' began in [[Zimbabwe]] on 14 January 2019 following a 130% increase in the price of fuel by the government of [[Emmerson Mnangagwa]]. Thousands of Zimbabweans protested the price increase, increasing levels of poverty, the poor state of the economy and declining standards of living. The government responded with a coordinated crackdown that resulted in hundreds of arrests and multiple deaths.
Protests began in [[Zimbabwe]] on 14 January 2019 following a 130% increase in the [[Fuel price|price of fuel]] imposed by the [[Government of Zimbabwe|government]] of [[Emmerson Mnangagwa]]. Thousands of Zimbabweans protested against the price increase, along with increasing levels of poverty, the poor state of [[Economy of Zimbabwe|the economy]], and declining standards of living. The government responded with a coordinated crackdown that resulted in hundreds of arrests and multiple deaths. The protests stopped after three days; by 17 January, businesses started reopening as the protests ended.<ref name=":1" />


== Background ==
== Background ==
In an effort to improve the financial and fiscal situation of the country following the [[2017 Zimbabwean coup d'état|establishment of the Mnangagwa government]] in 2017, the government initiated a number of austerity policies in an effort to kick-start the moribund [[Zimbabwe economy|economy]].<ref name="indzw">{{Cite web |url=https://www.theindependent.co.zw/2017/11/24/mnangagwa-plans-major-policy-shift/ |title=Mnangagwa plans major policy shift |last=Elias |first=Mambo |date=24 November 2017 |website=The Zimbabwe Independent |language=en-US |access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> By October 2018, foreign currency shortages led to large scale business closures and shortages of imported commodities, including fuel.<ref name="iolOct2018">{{Cite web |url=https://www.iol.co.za/news/africa/shops-shut-doors-as-zimbabwe-financial-crisis-deepens-17414862 |title=Shops shut doors as Zimbabwe financial crisis deepens | date=9 October 2018 |website=www.iol.co.za |language=en |access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> This led to persistent fuel shortages, strikes by government workers, and a worsening economic environment.<ref name="times">{{Cite web |url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/africa/2019-01-12-fuel-price-shock-zims-petrol-price-to-more-than-double/ |title=Fuel price shock! Zim's petrol price to more than double |last=Ndlovu |first=Ray |date=12 January 2019 |website=www.timeslive.co.za |language=en |access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref><ref name="bbc">{{Cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-46865007 |title=Where you wait seven hours and still get no fuel |date=15 January 2019 |website=BBC |language=en-GB |access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref>
In an effort to improve the financial and fiscal situation of the country following the [[2017 Zimbabwean coup d'état|establishment of the Mnangagwa government]] in 2017, the government initiated a number of [[austerity]] policies in an effort to kick-start the moribund [[Zimbabwe economy|economy]].<ref name="indzw">{{Cite web |url=https://www.theindependent.co.zw/2017/11/24/mnangagwa-plans-major-policy-shift/ |title=Mnangagwa plans major policy shift |last=Elias |first=Mambo |date=24 November 2017 |website=The Zimbabwe Independent |language=en-US |access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> By October 2018, foreign [[Currency crisis|currency shortages]] led to large scale business closures and shortages of imported commodities, including fuel.<ref name="iolOct2018">{{Cite web |url=https://www.iol.co.za/news/africa/shops-shut-doors-as-zimbabwe-financial-crisis-deepens-17414862 |title=Shops shut doors as Zimbabwe financial crisis deepens | date=9 October 2018 |website=www.iol.co.za |language=en |access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> This led to persistent fuel shortages, strikes by government workers, and a worsening economic environment.<ref name="times">{{Cite web |url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/africa/2019-01-12-fuel-price-shock-zims-petrol-price-to-more-than-double/ |title=Fuel price shock! Zim's petrol price to more than double |last=Ndlovu |first=Ray |date=12 January 2019 |website=www.timeslive.co.za |language=en |access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref><ref name="bbc">{{Cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-46865007 |title=Where you wait seven hours and still get no fuel |date=15 January 2019 |website=BBC |language=en-GB |access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref>


On 12 January 2019, the government of [[Emmerson Mnangagwa]] announced the price of fuel would be more than doubled in Zimbabwe by the [[Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Agency]]<ref name="def">{{Cite web |url=http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=54203:protests-follow-massive-zimbabwe-fuel-price-hike&Itemid=113 |title=Protests follow massive Zimbabwe fuel price hike | website=www.defenceweb.co.za |access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> as of midnight that night. Increasing the price of diesel from US$1.38 a litre to US$3.11 per litre and petrol from US$1.43 a litre to US$3.31 per litre representing an increase of almost 130% overnight.<ref name="times" /> It became the most expensive fuel in the world at the time.<ref name="msn">{{Cite web |url=https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/zimbabwe-military-quells-fuel-price-hike-protests-8-killed/ar-BBSgxXS |title=Zimbabwe military quells fuel price protests; several deaths |date=15 January 2019 |website=MSN |language=en-US |access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> Mnangagwa stated that the price increases were needed to reduce fuel shortages and illegal trading.<ref name="iolZM">{{Cite web |url=https://www.iol.co.za/news/africa/zimbabwe-police-fire-tear-gas-as-fuel-price-hike-protest-continues-18822841 |title=Zimbabwe police fire tear gas as fuel price hike protest continues | website=www.iol.co.za |language=en |access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> The [[Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions]] called for a three-day strike in protest of the price increases.<ref name="msn" />
On 12 January 2019, the government of [[Emmerson Mnangagwa]] announced that the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Agency would more than double fuel prices as of midnight that night.<ref name="def">{{Cite web |url=http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=54203:protests-follow-massive-zimbabwe-fuel-price-hike&Itemid=113 |title=Protests follow massive Zimbabwe fuel price hike |website=www.defenceweb.co.za |access-date=15 January 2019 |archive-date=16 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190116095919/http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=54203:protests-follow-massive-zimbabwe-fuel-price-hike&Itemid=113 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The price of [[Diesel fuel|diesel]] rose from US$1.38 to US$3.11 per litre (equivalent to $11.77 per US gallon or [[€]]2.73 per litre) and that of [[petrol]] from $1.43 to $3.31 per litre ($12.53 per US gallon or €2.91 per litre), for an increase of almost 130% overnight,<ref name="times" /> making Zimbabwe's fuel the most expensive in the world at the time.<ref name="msn">{{Cite web |url=https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/zimbabwe-military-quells-fuel-price-hike-protests-8-killed/ar-BBSgxXS |title=Zimbabwe military quells fuel price protests; several deaths |date=15 January 2019 |website=MSN |language=en-US |access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> Mnangagwa stated that the price increases were needed to reduce fuel shortages and illegal trading.<ref name="iolZM">{{Cite web |url=https://www.iol.co.za/news/africa/zimbabwe-police-fire-tear-gas-as-fuel-price-hike-protest-continues-18822841 |title=Zimbabwe police fire tear gas as fuel price hike protest continues | website=www.iol.co.za |language=en |access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> The [[Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions]] called for a three-day strike in protest at the price increases.<ref name="msn" />


== Protests ==
== Protests ==
[[File:Vladimir Putin and Emmerson Mnangagwa (2019-01-15).jpg|thumb|Presidents Vladimir Putin and Emmerson Mnangagwa. President Mnangagwa was in Russia during the protests.]]
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Protests began in [[Harare]] on 14 January 2019. In response, the police and military launched a coordinated response that involved raiding the homes of some residents.<ref name="yahoo">{{Cite web |url=https://news.yahoo.com/5-killed-zimbabwe-fuel-hike-protests-activists-083826020.html |title=Zimbabwe military quells fuel price hike protests; 8 killed |website=news.yahoo.com |language=en-US |access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> Beyond the capital, disturbances were also reported in the cities of [[Mutare]] and [[Bulawayo]].<ref name="bbc2">{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-46876397|title=Zimbabwe opposition office torched|date=15 January 2019|website=BBC|language=en-GB|access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> By the end of the day, the government reported that three people including one policeman had died in the protests.<ref name="busLiveP" /> Non-government sources reported that around 200 people had been arrested and that eight had been killed in the protests by police.<ref name="zimD" /><ref name="msn" /> The Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights stated that 107 people were injured, many suffering from gunshot wounds to the head.<ref name="msn800" /> Indiscriminate acts of violence by the police on both protesters and bystanders were also reported<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://citizen.co.za/news/news-africa/2063751/watch-looting-of-zimbabwe-shops-ahead-of-crackdown/|title=WATCH: Looting of Zimbabwe shops ahead of crackdown|last=AFP|website=The Citizen|language=en|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> along with acts of looting by some protesters in Harare, Bulawayo<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://citizen.co.za/news/news-africa/2062980/watch-looting-and-chaos-in-zimbabwe-as-angry-protesters-react-to-massive-fuel-hike/|title=WATCH: Looting and chaos in Zimbabwe as angry protesters react to massive fuel hike|last=Auntony|first=AFP / Fanuel Jongwe / Zinyange|website=The Citizen|language=en|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> and [[Kadoma, Zimbabwe|Kadoma]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.moneyweb.co.za/news-fast-news/zimbabwe-strike-enters-third-day-as-excessive-force-criticised/|title=Zimbabwe strike enters third day as ‘excessive force’ criticised|last=January 2019|first=Mike Schüssler / 16|date=16 January 2019|website=Moneyweb|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref>


=== During the protests ===
During the protests, the government blocked access to social messaging services WhatsApp, Facebook and Twitter. Later the government blocked all access to the internet once it was noticed that people were using [[Virtual private network|VPNs]] to access news of the protests.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.itnewsafrica.com/2019/01/zimbabwe-kills-internet-over-protests/|title=Zimbabwe kills its internet over protests|last=|first=|date=16 January 2019|website=www.itnewsafrica.com|publisher=IT News Africa|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> The country's largest cellular provider [[Econet Wireless|Econet]] confirmed that the government issued a directive blocking all internet access during the protests.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://allafrica.com/stories/201901160010.html|title=Zimbabwe: Econet Confirms Govt Directive to Block Internet - Masiyiwa Says Opposition Could Have Repealed Law During GNU|last=Bureau|first=U. K.|date=16 January 2019|work=New Zimbabwe (London)|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref>
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Protests began in [[Harare]] on 14 January 2019. In response, the [[Zimbabwe Republic Police|police]] and [[Zimbabwe National Army|military]] launched a coordinated response that involved raiding the homes of some residents.<ref name="yahoo">{{Cite web |url=https://news.yahoo.com/5-killed-zimbabwe-fuel-hike-protests-activists-083826020.html |title=Zimbabwe military quells fuel price hike protests; 8 killed |website=news.yahoo.com |date=15 January 2019 |language=en-US |access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> Beyond the capital, disturbances were also reported in the cities of [[Mutare]] and [[Bulawayo]].<ref name="bbc2">{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-46876397|title=Zimbabwe opposition office torched|date=15 January 2019|website=BBC|language=en-GB|access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> By the end of the day, the government reported that three people, including one policeman, had died in the protests.<ref name="busLiveP">{{Cite web |url=https://www.businesslive.co.za/bd/world/africa/2019-01-15-panicky-zimbabwe-government-shuts-down-internet/ |title=Panicky Zimbabwe government shuts down internet |last=Smaita |first=Kevin |date=15 January 2019 |website=www.businesslive.co.za |language=en |access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> Non-government sources reported that around 200 people had been arrested and that eight had been killed in the protests by police by the end of the first day of protests.<ref name="zimD">{{Cite web |url=https://www.thezimbabwedaily.com/news/305134-eight-killed-and-200-detained-in-zimbabwe-crackdown-on-fuel-price-protests-amnesty-international.html |title='Eight killed and 200 detained in Zimbabwe crackdown on fuel price protests' – Amnesty International |date=15 January 2019 |website=The Zimbabwe Daily |language=en-US |access-date=15 January 2019 |archive-date=16 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190116101422/https://www.thezimbabwedaily.com/news/305134-eight-killed-and-200-detained-in-zimbabwe-crackdown-on-fuel-price-protests-amnesty-international.html |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="msn" />


The Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights (ZADHR) stated that 172 people had been injured,<ref name=":1" /> of which 68 were treated for gunshot wounds.<ref name="washingtonP">{{Cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/africa/the-latest-soldiers-hungry-zimbabweans-in-the-streets/2019/01/16/f6e3e0fe-1987-11e9-b8e6-567190c2fd08_story.html |title=The Latest: Zimbabwe doctor group reports 68 gunshot wounds |date=16 January 2019 |newspaper=The Washington Post|language=en |access-date=17 January 2019}}</ref> Indiscriminate acts of violence by the police on both protesters and bystanders were also reported,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://citizen.co.za/news/news-africa/2063751/watch-looting-of-zimbabwe-shops-ahead-of-crackdown/|title=WATCH: Looting of Zimbabwe shops ahead of crackdown|last=AFP|website=The Citizen|date=15 January 2019 |language=en|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> along with acts of [[looting]] by some protesters in Harare, Bulawayo<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://citizen.co.za/news/news-africa/2062980/watch-looting-and-chaos-in-zimbabwe-as-angry-protesters-react-to-massive-fuel-hike/|title=WATCH: Looting and chaos in Zimbabwe as angry protesters react to massive fuel hike|last=Auntony|first=AFP / Fanuel Jongwe / Zinyange|website=The Citizen|date=14 January 2019 |language=en|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> and [[Kadoma, Zimbabwe|Kadoma]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.moneyweb.co.za/news-fast-news/zimbabwe-strike-enters-third-day-as-excessive-force-criticised/|title=Zimbabwe strike enters third day as 'excessive force' criticised|last=January 2019|first=Mike Schüssler / 16|date=16 January 2019|website=Moneyweb|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> By 18 January, the ZADHR had recorded 844 [[Human Rights Violations|human rights violations]] that included 78 gunshot injuries, 466 [[Arbitrary arrest and detention|arbitrary arrests and detentions]], as well as 242 cases of assault and degrading treatment.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://mg.co.za/article/2019-01-19-revolt-and-repression-in-zimbabwe/|title=Revolt and repression in Zimbabwe|last=Crisis Group|date=19 January 2019|website=The M&G Online|language=en|access-date=19 January 2019}}</ref>
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On the third day of the protests the civil society activist and pastor [[Evan Mawarire]] was arrested. Mawarire's lawyer stated that the government alleged that he incited violent protest on Twitter as the reason for the arrest. The [[Movement for Democratic Change – Tsvangirai]] (MDC-T) stated that its party leadership had been detained by security forces during the protests.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.news24.com/Africa/Zimbabwe/zimbabwe-police-arrest-prominent-govt-critic-pastor-mawarire-20190116|title=PICS: Zimbabwe police arrest prominent govt critic Pastor Mawarire|date=2019-01-16|website=News24|language=en|access-date=2019-01-16}}</ref>


The government blamed the MDC-T for the protests.<ref name="busLiveP" /><ref name="ewn1">{{Cite web|url=https://ewn.co.za/2019/01/15/zimbabwe-fuel-protests-turn-deadly|title=Zimbabwe fuel protests turn deadly|last=AFP|website=ewn.co.za|language=en|access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> MDC-T offices were attacked and torched during the protests with the MDC alleging that ZANU-PF supporters were responsible.<ref name="bbc2" /><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://allafrica.com/stories/201901150073.html|title=Zimbabwe: MDC's Harvest House HQ Bombed - Lawyers Say Soldiers in Midnight Raids Against Civilians|last=Bureau|first=U. K.|date=15 January 2019|work=New Zimbabwe (London)|access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> The government stated that government property and property owned by the ruling ZANU-PF party was damaged in the attacks and blamed MDC supporters.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://allafrica.com/stories/201901150060.html|title=Zimbabwe: Updated - MDC Violence Leaves Trail of Destruction|date=15 January 2019|work=The Herald (Harare)|access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref>
On 15 January, internet monitoring group [[NetBlocks]] reported the blocking of over a dozen social media and messaging platforms in Zimbabwe including [[WhatsApp]], [[Facebook]], [[Twitter]] and [[Instagram]] followed by total internet blackouts.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://netblocks.org/reports/zimbabwe-internet-shutdowns-amid-fuel-price-protests-OxAGDdBz|title=Zimbabwe Internet shutdowns amid fuel price protests|date=2019-01-15|website=NetBlocks|language=en-US|access-date=2019-01-24}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.ft.com/content/5e3b8efa-18ca-11e9-9e64-d150b3105d21|title=Zimbabwe cracks down violently on fuel protesters|last=Cotterill|first=Joseph|date=15 January 2019|work=Financial Times}}</ref> The first three days of the disruption cost the Zimbabwe's economy an estimated $17 million as the government extended its disruption to a full shutdown to prevent the use of [[Virtual private network|VPN]] circumvention tools by demonstrators.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cnn.com/2019/01/17/africa/internet-shutdown-zimbabwe-censorship-intl/index.html|title=The internet is more vulnerable than you realize|author=Analysis by James Griffiths|website=CNN|date=18 January 2019 |access-date=2019-01-24}}</ref> The country's largest cellular provider, [[Econet Wireless|Econet]], confirmed that the government issued a directive blocking all internet access during the protests.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://allafrica.com/stories/201901160010.html|title=Zimbabwe: Econet Confirms Govt Directive to Block Internet - Masiyiwa Says Opposition Could Have Repealed Law During GNU|date=16 January 2019|work=New Zimbabwe (London)|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> After the protests ended the Zimbabwean High Court ruled that the internet shutdown was illegal and ordered it to be restored.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/zimbabwe-court-says-internet-shutdown-illegal/|title=Zimbabwe court says internet shutdown illegal|date=2019-01-22|website=SABC News|language=en-US|access-date=2019-01-23}}</ref>

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On the third day of the protests, civil society activist and pastor [[Evan Mawarire]] was arrested. Mawarire's lawyer stated that the government alleged that his [[Incitement|inciting]] of violent protests on Twitter as the reason for the arrest. The [[Movement for Democratic Change – Tsvangirai]] (MDC-T) stated that its party leadership had been detained by security forces during the protests.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.news24.com/Africa/Zimbabwe/zimbabwe-police-arrest-prominent-govt-critic-pastor-mawarire-20190116|title=PICS: Zimbabwe police arrest prominent govt critic Pastor Mawarire|date=16 January 2019|website=News24|language=en|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> An unknown number of abductions by security personnel were reported during the crackdown on the protests.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/jan/16/authorities-launch-major-crackdown-amid-protests-zimbabwe|title=Civilians beaten and abducted in major Zimbabwe crackdown|first=Jason|last=Burke|date=16 January 2019|work=The Guardian|access-date=18 January 2019|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077}}</ref>

The government blamed the MDC-T for the protests.<ref name="busLiveP" /><ref name="ewn1">{{Cite web|url=https://ewn.co.za/2019/01/15/zimbabwe-fuel-protests-turn-deadly|title=Zimbabwe fuel protests turn deadly|last=AFP|website=ewn.co.za|language=en|access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> MDC-T offices were attacked and torched during the protests with the MDC-T alleging that [[ZANU–PF|ZANU-PF]] supporters were responsible.<ref name="bbc2" /><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://allafrica.com/stories/201901150073.html|title=Zimbabwe: MDC's Harvest House HQ Bombed - Lawyers Say Soldiers in Midnight Raids Against Civilians|date=15 January 2019|work=New Zimbabwe (London)|access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> The government stated that government property and property owned by the ruling ZANU-PF party was damaged in the attacks and blamed MDC-T supporters.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://allafrica.com/stories/201901150060.html|title=Zimbabwe: Updated - MDC Violence Leaves Trail of Destruction|date=15 January 2019|work=The Herald (Harare)|access-date=15 January 2019}}</ref> The government also stated that the protests were coordinated by opposition parties and compared the protests to [[terrorism]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.latimes.com/world/la-fg-zimbabwe-crackdown-20190116-story.html|title=In harsh crackdown, Zimbabwe police arrest scores as protests grow|agency=Associated Press|website=[[Los Angeles Times]]|date=16 January 2019 |access-date=17 January 2019}}</ref> The MDC-T denied government accusations that they were responsible for violence committed by protesters and highlighted acts of violence committed by government forces against protesters and civilians.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dw.com/en/zimbabwe-opposition-we-are-not-to-blame-for-the-violence/a-47111040|title=Zimbabwe opposition: We are not to blame for the violence|date=16 January 2019|website=DW.COM|language=en-GB|access-date=17 January 2019}}</ref> A large number of the police raids took place in opposition electoral strong holds in urban areas around Harare.<ref name=":2">{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/jan/20/zimbabwe-warns-brutal-crackdown-foretaste-of-things-to-come|title=Zimbabwe warns brutal crackdown is 'foretaste of things to come'|last=Burke|first=Jason|date=2019-01-20|work=The Guardian|access-date=2019-01-21|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077}}</ref>

On 17 January in Harare, the fourth and final day of fixtures in round three of the [[2018–19 Logan Cup]] cricket tournament were both called off due to the protests.<ref name="logan">{{cite web|url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/story/_/id/25784412/logan-cup-games-called-due-zimbabwe-unrest |title=Logan Cup games called off due to Zimbabwe unrest |work=ESPN Cricinfo |access-date=17 January 2019|date=17 January 2019 }}</ref>

=== After the protests ===
By Saturday the 20 January the security services set up a number of roadblocks throughout the country in an effort to arrest protesters and other individuals wanted by the government.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/africa/2019-01-20-zimbabwe-police-erect-road-blocks-to-hunt-protesters/|title=Zimbabwe police erect road blocks to hunt protesters|website=www.timeslive.co.za|language=en|access-date=2019-01-21}}</ref> A large number of people who disappeared during the government crackdown during the protests remain unaccounted for.<ref name=":2" />

On 21 January, human rights organizations in Zimbabwe claimed that a total of 12 protesters were killed by security forces and many more had been beaten.<ref name="Logan">{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-46938679 |title=Zimbabwe protests: Crackdown is just a 'taste of things to come' |work=BBC |access-date=21 January 2019|date=20 January 2019 }}</ref>


== Response ==
== Response ==
⚫
The MDC-T called on South Africa to intervene and criticised the government's violent response.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.businesslive.co.za/bd/world/africa/2019-01-16-opposition-mdc-calls-on-cyril-ramaphosa-to-intervene-in-zimbabwe-crisis/|title=Opposition MDC calls on Cyril Ramaphosa to intervene in Zimbabwe crisis|last=Maughan|first=Karyn|date=16 January 2019|website=Business Day|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> [[Human Rights Watch]] stated that the use of unlawful lethal force by the government should be investigated and those responsible prosecuted.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.iol.co.za/news/africa/unlawful-lethal-force-by-zimbabwe-security-forces-should-be-probed-hrw-18833981|title=Unlawful lethal force by Zimbabwe security forces should be probed - HRW {{!}} IOL News|website=www.iol.co.za|language=en|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> Zimbabweans in South Africa protested in support of the this call for South Africa to get involved in an effort to release arrested opposition leaders and restore access to the internet and other rights.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://citizen.co.za/news/news-africa/2064880/zimbabweans-living-in-sa-protest-for-ramaphosa-to-intervene-in-harare/|title=Zimbabweans living in SA protest for Ramaphosa to intervene in Harare|last=ANA|website=The Citizen|language=en|access-date=2019-01-16}}</ref>


=== Regional response ===
⚫
South Africa's official opposition party, the [[Democratic Alliance (South Africa)|Democratic Alliance]], stated that the situation within Zimbabwe was so bad that the South African government should abandon its [[Thabo Mbeki|Mbeki]]-era quiet diplomacy policy and intervene.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ewn.co.za/2019/01/15/sa-govt-must-intervene-in-zimbabwe-crisis-maimane|title=SA govt must intervene in Zimbabwe crisis - Maimane|last=Dentlinger|first=Lindsay|date=15 January 2019|website=ewn.co.za|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=2019-01-16}}</ref> The [[Economic Freedom Fighters]], a South African political party, issued a statement condemning the Zimbabwe government's violent response to the protests.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-national-byo-153744.html|title=Malema's EFF 'extends its solidarity' with the people of Zimbabwe|website=Bulawayo24 News|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> The South African government said it was monitoring the situation in Zimbabwe and stated with confidence that "measures being taken by the Zimbabwean government will resolve the situation."<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/south-africa/2019-01-16-south-africa-monitoring-zimbabwe-as-troops-mount-clampdown/|title=South Africa 'monitoring' Zimbabwe as troops mount clampdown|last=|first=|date=16 January 2019|website=www.timeslive.co.za|language=en|archive-url=|archive-date=|dead-url=|access-date=2019-01-16}}</ref>
⚫
The MDC-T called on [[South Africa]] to intervene and criticise the government's violent response.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.businesslive.co.za/bd/world/africa/2019-01-16-opposition-mdc-calls-on-cyril-ramaphosa-to-intervene-in-zimbabwe-crisis/|title=Opposition MDC calls on Cyril Ramaphosa to intervene in Zimbabwe crisis|last=Maughan|first=Karyn|date=16 January 2019|website=Business Day|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> [[Human Rights Watch]] stated that the use of unlawful lethal force by the government should be investigated and those responsible prosecuted.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.iol.co.za/news/africa/unlawful-lethal-force-by-zimbabwe-security-forces-should-be-probed-hrw-18833981|title=Unlawful lethal force by Zimbabwe security forces should be probed - HRW {{!}} IOL News|website=www.iol.co.za|language=en|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> [[Zimbabweans in South Africa]] demonstrated to encourage South Africa to put pressure on the government to release arrested opposition leaders, restore internet access, and respect human rights.<ref>{{Cite web|author=[[African News Agency]]|url=https://citizen.co.za/news/news-africa/2064880/zimbabweans-living-in-sa-protest-for-ramaphosa-to-intervene-in-harare/|title=Zimbabweans living in SA protest for Ramaphosa to intervene in Harare|website=The Citizen|language=en|access-date=16 January 2019|archive-date=8 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108001838/https://citizen.co.za/news/news-africa/2064880/zimbabweans-living-in-sa-protest-for-ramaphosa-to-intervene-in-harare/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Protests by Zimbabweans against the Zimbabwean government response were also reported in [[Botswana]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://apanews.net/en/news/botswana-zimbabwe-citizens-protest-at-embassy-over-fuel-hike|title=Botswana: Zimbabwe citizens protest at embassy over fuel hike|last=APANEWS|website=apanews.net|language=en|access-date=2019-01-27}}</ref> and [[Namibia]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.newzimbabwe.com/namibia-zimbabweans-express-outrage-at-crackdown-back-home/|title=NAMIBIA: Zimbabweans express outrage at crackdown back home|date=2019-01-22|website=NewZimbabwe.com|language=en-GB|access-date=2019-01-27}}</ref>

⚫
South Africa's official opposition party, the [[Democratic Alliance (South Africa)|Democratic Alliance]], stated that the situation within Zimbabwe was so severe that the South African government should abandon its [[Thabo Mbeki|Mbeki]]-era [[Preventive diplomacy|quiet diplomacy]] policy and intervene.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ewn.co.za/2019/01/15/sa-govt-must-intervene-in-zimbabwe-crisis-maimane|title=SA govt must intervene in Zimbabwe crisis - Maimane|last=Dentlinger|first=Lindsay|date=15 January 2019|website=ewn.co.za|language=en|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> The [[Economic Freedom Fighters]], a South African political party, issued a statement condemning the Zimbabwean government's violent response to the protests.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-national-byo-153744.html|title=Malema's EFF 'extends its solidarity' with the people of Zimbabwe|website=Bulawayo24 News|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref> The [[South African government]] said it was monitoring the situation in Zimbabwe and stated with confidence that "measures being taken by the Zimbabwean government will resolve the situation."<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/south-africa/2019-01-16-south-africa-monitoring-zimbabwe-as-troops-mount-clampdown/|title=South Africa 'monitoring' Zimbabwe as troops mount clampdown|date=16 January 2019|website=www.timeslive.co.za|language=en|access-date=16 January 2019}}</ref>

The [[South African Federation of Trade Unions]] condemned both the fuel price increase and the government's use of lethal force against the protesters.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.polity.org.za/article/saftu-saftu-supports-zimbabwe-general-strike-and-strongly-condemns-government-violence-and-tyranny-2019-01-16|title=SAFTU: SAFTU supports Zimbabwe general strike and strongly condemns government violence and tyranny|website=Polity.org.za|access-date=17 January 2019}}</ref> The [[National Union of Namibian Workers]] stated that they were "saddened and disturbed by the blatant disregard for trade unions and human rights in Zimbabwe"<ref name=":4">{{Cite web|url=https://www.msn.com/en-za/news/other/workers-union-questions-silence-on-zimbabwe-crisis/ar-BBSIAyc|title=Workers' Union Questions Silence on Zimbabwe Crisis|last=Kamwi|first=Ruth|date=25 January 2019|website=MSN|publisher=The Namibian|language=en-ZA|access-date=2019-01-27}}</ref> and criticised the silence of the [[Southern African Development Community]] (SADC).<ref name=":4" />

Human Rights Watch criticised the SADC and the [[African Union]] for remaining silent on the violations of human rights by the Zimbabwean government during the protests.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/human-rights-watch-launches-report-on-africas-progress/|title=Bleak picture of human rights on the African continent: HRW report|last=Bolowana|first=Angela|date=17 January 2019|website=SABC News|language=en-ZA|access-date=17 January 2019}}</ref>

=== International response ===
*{{flag|United States}} [[embassy]] in Zimbabwe stated that it was "alarmed by credible reports that security forces are targeting and beating political activists and labor leaders".<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=https://zw.usembassy.gov/response-to-civil-unrest-provoked-by-fuel-shortages-and-price-hikes/|title=Response to Civil Unrest Provoked by Fuel Shortages and Price Hikes|date=17 January 2019|website=U.S. Embassy in Zimbabwe|language=en-US|access-date=17 January 2019|archive-date=28 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210328141535/https://zw.usembassy.gov/response-to-civil-unrest-provoked-by-fuel-shortages-and-price-hikes/|url-status=dead}}</ref> The embassy also urged the government to restore access to social media and for peaceful protests.<ref name=":0" />
*{{flag|United Kingdom}} summoned the Zimbabwean ambassador to express its concern over the unrest and called on Zimbabwe to "ensure its security forces act professionally, proportionately and at all times with respect for human life".<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-zimbabwe-politics-britain-idUSKCN1PB29H|title=Britain 'deeply concerned' at Zimbabwe unrest; summons ambassador|date=17 January 2019|work=Reuters|access-date=2019-01-17|language=en}}</ref>
*{{flag|European Union}} criticised the disproportionate use of "force by security personnel" and stated that it expected "the Government of Zimbabwe to uphold human rights and the rule of law, as enshrined in the constitution, and ensure due legal process for those detained."<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://ewn.co.za/2019/01/18/eu-slams-disproportionate-use-of-force-in-zimbabwe|title=EU slams 'disproportionate' use of force in Zimbabwe|last=AFP|date=18 January 2018|website=ewn.co.za|language=en|access-date=18 January 2019}}</ref>
*{{flag|UN}} [[Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights|High Commissioner for Human Rights]] urged the government to "stop the crackdown" and stated its concern over the security forces' "excessive use of force".<ref name=":3" />


==See also==
==See also==
⚫
* [[2017 Zimbabwean coup d'état]]
*[[Economy of Zimbabwe]]
* [[Economy of Zimbabwe]]
⚫
*[[2017 Zimbabwean coup d'état]]
* List of fuel protests


==References==
==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}
{{Reflist}}


{{Zimbabwe topics}}
{{Zimbabwe topics}}
{{Years in Zimbabwe}}
{{Years in Zimbabwe}}
{{Anti-government protests in the 21st century}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:2016-17 Zimbabwe protests}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Zimbabwe fuel protests}}
[[Category:2019 in Zimbabwe|Protest]]
[[Category:2019 in Zimbabwe|Protest]]
[[Category:2019 protests|Zimbabwean]]
[[Category:2019 protests|Zimbabwean]]
[[Category:January 2019 events in Africa|Zimbabwe fuel protests]]
[[Category:January 2019 events in Africa]]
[[Category:January 2019 events in Africa|Zimbabwean]]
[[Category:Protests in Zimbabwe]]
[[Category:Protests in Zimbabwe]]
[[Category:Petroleum politics]]
[[category:Fuel protests]]
[[Category:Labour disputes in Zimbabwe]]

Latest revision as of 09:07, 11 December 2024

Zimbabwe fuel protests
Date14 January 2019 – 17 January 2019
(3 days)
Location
Zimbabwe
Caused by130% increase in fuel prices
GoalsElimination of the fuel price increase.
MethodsCivil resistance, demonstrations, protest marches, rioting, picketing
Parties
Casualties and losses
  • Arrests: 600+[1]
  • Injuries: 172[2]
  • Deaths: 12[3]

Protests began in Zimbabwe on 14 January 2019 following a 130% increase in the price of fuel imposed by the government of Emmerson Mnangagwa. Thousands of Zimbabweans protested against the price increase, along with increasing levels of poverty, the poor state of the economy, and declining standards of living. The government responded with a coordinated crackdown that resulted in hundreds of arrests and multiple deaths. The protests stopped after three days; by 17 January, businesses started reopening as the protests ended.[2]

Background

[edit]

In an effort to improve the financial and fiscal situation of the country following the establishment of the Mnangagwa government in 2017, the government initiated a number of austerity policies in an effort to kick-start the moribund economy.[4] By October 2018, foreign currency shortages led to large scale business closures and shortages of imported commodities, including fuel.[5] This led to persistent fuel shortages, strikes by government workers, and a worsening economic environment.[6][7]

On 12 January 2019, the government of Emmerson Mnangagwa announced that the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Agency would more than double fuel prices as of midnight that night.[8] The price of diesel rose from US$1.38 to US$3.11 per litre (equivalent to $11.77 per US gallon or €2.73 per litre) and that of petrol from $1.43 to $3.31 per litre ($12.53 per US gallon or €2.91 per litre), for an increase of almost 130% overnight,[6] making Zimbabwe's fuel the most expensive in the world at the time.[9] Mnangagwa stated that the price increases were needed to reduce fuel shortages and illegal trading.[10] The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions called for a three-day strike in protest at the price increases.[9]

Protests

[edit]
Presidents Vladimir Putin and Emmerson Mnangagwa. President Mnangagwa was in Russia during the protests.

During the protests

[edit]

Protests began in Harare on 14 January 2019. In response, the police and military launched a coordinated response that involved raiding the homes of some residents.[11] Beyond the capital, disturbances were also reported in the cities of Mutare and Bulawayo.[12] By the end of the day, the government reported that three people, including one policeman, had died in the protests.[13] Non-government sources reported that around 200 people had been arrested and that eight had been killed in the protests by police by the end of the first day of protests.[14][9]

The Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights (ZADHR) stated that 172 people had been injured,[2] of which 68 were treated for gunshot wounds.[15] Indiscriminate acts of violence by the police on both protesters and bystanders were also reported,[16] along with acts of looting by some protesters in Harare, Bulawayo[17] and Kadoma.[18] By 18 January, the ZADHR had recorded 844 human rights violations that included 78 gunshot injuries, 466 arbitrary arrests and detentions, as well as 242 cases of assault and degrading treatment.[19]

On 15 January, internet monitoring group NetBlocks reported the blocking of over a dozen social media and messaging platforms in Zimbabwe including WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram followed by total internet blackouts.[20][21] The first three days of the disruption cost the Zimbabwe's economy an estimated $17 million as the government extended its disruption to a full shutdown to prevent the use of VPN circumvention tools by demonstrators.[22] The country's largest cellular provider, Econet, confirmed that the government issued a directive blocking all internet access during the protests.[23] After the protests ended the Zimbabwean High Court ruled that the internet shutdown was illegal and ordered it to be restored.[24]

On the third day of the protests, civil society activist and pastor Evan Mawarire was arrested. Mawarire's lawyer stated that the government alleged that his inciting of violent protests on Twitter as the reason for the arrest. The Movement for Democratic Change – Tsvangirai (MDC-T) stated that its party leadership had been detained by security forces during the protests.[25] An unknown number of abductions by security personnel were reported during the crackdown on the protests.[26]

The government blamed the MDC-T for the protests.[13][27] MDC-T offices were attacked and torched during the protests with the MDC-T alleging that ZANU-PF supporters were responsible.[12][28] The government stated that government property and property owned by the ruling ZANU-PF party was damaged in the attacks and blamed MDC-T supporters.[29] The government also stated that the protests were coordinated by opposition parties and compared the protests to terrorism.[30] The MDC-T denied government accusations that they were responsible for violence committed by protesters and highlighted acts of violence committed by government forces against protesters and civilians.[31] A large number of the police raids took place in opposition electoral strong holds in urban areas around Harare.[32]

On 17 January in Harare, the fourth and final day of fixtures in round three of the 2018–19 Logan Cup cricket tournament were both called off due to the protests.[33]

After the protests

[edit]

By Saturday the 20 January the security services set up a number of roadblocks throughout the country in an effort to arrest protesters and other individuals wanted by the government.[34] A large number of people who disappeared during the government crackdown during the protests remain unaccounted for.[32]

On 21 January, human rights organizations in Zimbabwe claimed that a total of 12 protesters were killed by security forces and many more had been beaten.[35]

Response

[edit]

Regional response

[edit]

The MDC-T called on South Africa to intervene and criticise the government's violent response.[36] Human Rights Watch stated that the use of unlawful lethal force by the government should be investigated and those responsible prosecuted.[37] Zimbabweans in South Africa demonstrated to encourage South Africa to put pressure on the government to release arrested opposition leaders, restore internet access, and respect human rights.[38] Protests by Zimbabweans against the Zimbabwean government response were also reported in Botswana[39] and Namibia.[40]

South Africa's official opposition party, the Democratic Alliance, stated that the situation within Zimbabwe was so severe that the South African government should abandon its Mbeki-era quiet diplomacy policy and intervene.[41] The Economic Freedom Fighters, a South African political party, issued a statement condemning the Zimbabwean government's violent response to the protests.[42] The South African government said it was monitoring the situation in Zimbabwe and stated with confidence that "measures being taken by the Zimbabwean government will resolve the situation."[43]

The South African Federation of Trade Unions condemned both the fuel price increase and the government's use of lethal force against the protesters.[44] The National Union of Namibian Workers stated that they were "saddened and disturbed by the blatant disregard for trade unions and human rights in Zimbabwe"[45] and criticised the silence of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).[45]

Human Rights Watch criticised the SADC and the African Union for remaining silent on the violations of human rights by the Zimbabwean government during the protests.[46]

International response

[edit]
  •  United States embassy in Zimbabwe stated that it was "alarmed by credible reports that security forces are targeting and beating political activists and labor leaders".[47] The embassy also urged the government to restore access to social media and for peaceful protests.[47]
  •  United Kingdom summoned the Zimbabwean ambassador to express its concern over the unrest and called on Zimbabwe to "ensure its security forces act professionally, proportionately and at all times with respect for human life".[48]
  •  European Union criticised the disproportionate use of "force by security personnel" and stated that it expected "the Government of Zimbabwe to uphold human rights and the rule of law, as enshrined in the constitution, and ensure due legal process for those detained."[49]
  •  UN High Commissioner for Human Rights urged the government to "stop the crackdown" and stated its concern over the security forces' "excessive use of force".[34]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Zimbabwe police arrest 600 in harsh crackdown on protests". MSN. Retrieved 16 January 2019.
  2. ^ a b c Dzirutwe, MacDonald (17 January 2019). "UPDATE 2-Zimbabwe doctors treat 68 for gunshot wounds, police..." Reuters. Retrieved 17 January 2019.
  3. ^ "Death toll from Zimbabwe protests rises to 12, rights body says". MoneyWeb. 20 January 2019. Retrieved 21 January 2019.
  4. ^ Elias, Mambo (24 November 2017). "Mnangagwa plans major policy shift". The Zimbabwe Independent. Retrieved 15 January 2019.
  5. ^ "Shops shut doors as Zimbabwe financial crisis deepens". www.iol.co.za. 9 October 2018. Retrieved 15 January 2019.
  6. ^ a b Ndlovu, Ray (12 January 2019). "Fuel price shock! Zim's petrol price to more than double". www.timeslive.co.za. Retrieved 15 January 2019.
  7. ^ "Where you wait seven hours and still get no fuel". BBC. 15 January 2019. Retrieved 15 January 2019.
  8. ^ "Protests follow massive Zimbabwe fuel price hike". www.defenceweb.co.za. Archived from the original on 16 January 2019. Retrieved 15 January 2019.
  9. ^ a b c "Zimbabwe military quells fuel price protests; several deaths". MSN. 15 January 2019. Retrieved 15 January 2019.
  10. ^ "Zimbabwe police fire tear gas as fuel price hike protest continues". www.iol.co.za. Retrieved 15 January 2019.
  11. ^ "Zimbabwe military quells fuel price hike protests; 8 killed". news.yahoo.com. 15 January 2019. Retrieved 15 January 2019.
  12. ^ a b "Zimbabwe opposition office torched". BBC. 15 January 2019. Retrieved 15 January 2019.
  13. ^ a b Smaita, Kevin (15 January 2019). "Panicky Zimbabwe government shuts down internet". www.businesslive.co.za. Retrieved 15 January 2019.
  14. ^ "'Eight killed and 200 detained in Zimbabwe crackdown on fuel price protests' – Amnesty International". The Zimbabwe Daily. 15 January 2019. Archived from the original on 16 January 2019. Retrieved 15 January 2019.
  15. ^ "The Latest: Zimbabwe doctor group reports 68 gunshot wounds". The Washington Post. 16 January 2019. Retrieved 17 January 2019.
  16. ^ AFP (15 January 2019). "WATCH: Looting of Zimbabwe shops ahead of crackdown". The Citizen. Retrieved 16 January 2019.
  17. ^ Auntony, AFP / Fanuel Jongwe / Zinyange (14 January 2019). "WATCH: Looting and chaos in Zimbabwe as angry protesters react to massive fuel hike". The Citizen. Retrieved 16 January 2019.
  18. ^ January 2019, Mike Schüssler / 16 (16 January 2019). "Zimbabwe strike enters third day as 'excessive force' criticised". Moneyweb. Retrieved 16 January 2019.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  19. ^ Crisis Group (19 January 2019). "Revolt and repression in Zimbabwe". The M&G Online. Retrieved 19 January 2019.
  20. ^ "Zimbabwe Internet shutdowns amid fuel price protests". NetBlocks. 15 January 2019. Retrieved 24 January 2019.
  21. ^ Cotterill, Joseph (15 January 2019). "Zimbabwe cracks down violently on fuel protesters". Financial Times.
  22. ^ Analysis by James Griffiths (18 January 2019). "The internet is more vulnerable than you realize". CNN. Retrieved 24 January 2019.
  23. ^ "Zimbabwe: Econet Confirms Govt Directive to Block Internet - Masiyiwa Says Opposition Could Have Repealed Law During GNU". New Zimbabwe (London). 16 January 2019. Retrieved 16 January 2019.
  24. ^ "Zimbabwe court says internet shutdown illegal". SABC News. 22 January 2019. Retrieved 23 January 2019.
  25. ^ "PICS: Zimbabwe police arrest prominent govt critic Pastor Mawarire". News24. 16 January 2019. Retrieved 16 January 2019.
  26. ^ Burke, Jason (16 January 2019). "Civilians beaten and abducted in major Zimbabwe crackdown". The Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Retrieved 18 January 2019.
  27. ^ AFP. "Zimbabwe fuel protests turn deadly". ewn.co.za. Retrieved 15 January 2019.
  28. ^ "Zimbabwe: MDC's Harvest House HQ Bombed - Lawyers Say Soldiers in Midnight Raids Against Civilians". New Zimbabwe (London). 15 January 2019. Retrieved 15 January 2019.
  29. ^ "Zimbabwe: Updated - MDC Violence Leaves Trail of Destruction". The Herald (Harare). 15 January 2019. Retrieved 15 January 2019.
  30. ^ "In harsh crackdown, Zimbabwe police arrest scores as protests grow". Los Angeles Times. Associated Press. 16 January 2019. Retrieved 17 January 2019.
  31. ^ "Zimbabwe opposition: We are not to blame for the violence". DW.COM. 16 January 2019. Retrieved 17 January 2019.
  32. ^ a b Burke, Jason (20 January 2019). "Zimbabwe warns brutal crackdown is 'foretaste of things to come'". The Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Retrieved 21 January 2019.
  33. ^ "Logan Cup games called off due to Zimbabwe unrest". ESPN Cricinfo. 17 January 2019. Retrieved 17 January 2019.
  34. ^ a b "Zimbabwe police erect road blocks to hunt protesters". www.timeslive.co.za. Retrieved 21 January 2019.
  35. ^ "Zimbabwe protests: Crackdown is just a 'taste of things to come'". BBC. 20 January 2019. Retrieved 21 January 2019.
  36. ^ Maughan, Karyn (16 January 2019). "Opposition MDC calls on Cyril Ramaphosa to intervene in Zimbabwe crisis". Business Day. Retrieved 16 January 2019.
  37. ^ "Unlawful lethal force by Zimbabwe security forces should be probed - HRW | IOL News". www.iol.co.za. Retrieved 16 January 2019.
  38. ^ African News Agency. "Zimbabweans living in SA protest for Ramaphosa to intervene in Harare". The Citizen. Archived from the original on 8 November 2020. Retrieved 16 January 2019.
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