2008 Warden Message, Number 19

June 9, 2008

This warden message is to alert American citizens in Harare of credible reports that ruling party ZANU-PF supporters are operating in the northern suburb of Chisipite to intimidate the population in that area in advance of the June 27 presidential election.  These ZANU-PF supporters have reportedly been accosting pedestrians, visiting residences in the area, intimidating Zimbabweans and forcing them to attend ZANU-PF political rallies.  There are also credible reports that opposition party Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) supporters have been beaten at this location.

American citizens in the Chisipite area should exercise extreme caution when conducting business in the area, including the Chisipite shops, and should avoid walking in this area until further notice. While Americans have not yet been directly targeted in Harare, there is the potential for Westerners to be included in this intimidation campaign.

The embassy has also received credible reports of similar ZANU-PF activities in the Braeside neighborhood of Harare. Similar precautions should be observed in that area and across the city.

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.