HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) — The massive march that Zimbabwe’s government tried to rouse for a new anti-sanctions public holiday appeared to fizzle on Friday, as just hundreds of people turned out in the capital, Harare, instead of the many thousands the ruling party had in mind.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government is blaming years of U.S. sanctions for devastating economic conditions including galloping inflation and severe shortages of basic goods and services.
“Today we arise and collectively say enough is enough,” Mnangagwa said. “The illegal sanctions are an albatross to the development, well-being and prosperity of the people of Zimbabwe ... We call on the U.S. to immediately and conditionally remove the sanctions for the sake of our children.”