MDC reports abductions

The Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) has claimed that seven of its members were abducted in the early hours of Thursday in Chitungwiza, just hours after police prohibited a planned demonstration in Harare.

In a statement, the party said the individuals were taken around 3am by armed men travelling in Mahindra vehicles and carrying AK-47 rifles and pistols.

Those reported missing include National Standing Committee member and Youth Assembly chairperson Decent Dzaida, deputy youth organising secretary Tonderai Cephas Makuyana, Chitungwiza provincial treasurer Austin Name, St Mary's youth chairperson Shingirai Chitauro, along with four other provincial officials.

The party said attempts by relatives and colleagues to locate the missing members have so far been unsuccessful.

Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Republic Police issued a formal prohibition notice banning the MDC's planned demonstration scheduled for Friday in central Harare.

The march was expected to proceed from Robert Mugabe Square to Africa Unity Square between 10am and 1:30pm.

In the notice issued under the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act, acting Harare Central Police District officer Superintendent Collence Nyamukuta said authorities had received "credible information on oath" suggesting the protest could result in serious public disorder.

Police cited risks including disruption of traffic, injury to participants and members of the public, and possible damage to property.

The decision followed a consultative meeting held on April 21, 2026, at Harare Central Police District headquarters, where authorities concluded that no conditions could adequately mitigate the anticipated risks.

The MDC has not yet issued a formal response to the prohibition notice.

The developments come amid heightened political tensions linked to Constitutional Amendment Bill Number 3, which has triggered disputes between the opposition and ruling party over its potential impact on Zimbabwe's electoral timeline and governance structure.