2008 Warden Message, Number 29
2008 Warden Message, Number 29
This warden message is to alert American citizens of increased political and economic inspired unrest, principally occurring in the Harare town center. On the afternoon of December 1, approximately 100 Zimbabwe soldiers clashed with Riot Police near Nelson Mandela Road and 2nd Street, then moved to Robert Mugabe Road and 4th Street. In both locations, reports included thrown rocks and bottles with unconfirmed injuries. In this volatile situation involving current and former soldiers, the police appeared incapable of reigning in the behavior of the soldiers. As a result, military police were deployed to control the soldiers.
The past week has seen an increase in the frustration level of Zimbabwe soldiers throughout the country. Reports indicate that soldiers began taking the law into their own hands in an attempt to remedy what they see as a failure by the authorities to bring order to the financial system. Reports from Mutare indicate that isolated bands of soldiers are harassing citizens and robbing money changers, and that there has been significant violence around the diamond fields at Chiadza.
This latest unrest comes on the verge of other planned protests. Reports indicate that the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions is planning demonstrations throughout Harare town center on Wednesday, December 3, 2008. In addition, the National Constitutional Assembly is planning demonstrations on Thursday, December 4, 2008. In these and all demonstrations, we anticipate the government will react forcibly to disband the demonstrations. We advise Americans to avoid all demonstrations, as well as the central business district of Harare. Bystanders could be caught up in localized incidents of violence.
American citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times.
We strongly recommend that American citizens register their presence in Zimbabwe via the Internet at https://travelregistration.state.gov or in person at the U.S. Embassy in Harare, located at 172 Herbert Chitepo Avenue (Tel. 263-4-250-593/4/5, email consularharare@state.gov). In the event of an after-hours emergency, please call the above number and ask to be transferred to the duty officer.
We will continue to provide information to you via email, text message, the internet and Voice of America radio broadcasts (909 on the AM dial or on Shortwave at 4930, 13755 or 15775 Khz) as events unfold. You are always welcome to contact us at the phone, fax and email numbers listed above.
As the Department of State continues to develop information on any potential security threats to U.S. citizens overseas, it shares credible threat information through its consular information program documents, available on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov. In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.
Issued December 1, 2008
