Tight security for President Mugabe

Tight security for Robert Mugabe

Despite the political crisis rocking Zimbabwe, reports from the country say that the situation in the capital remains calm.   

Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe
Gallo Images


People have been gong to work, without disruption this morning and public transport appears to be running smoothly. 


There's a military lock-down at state TV and radio stations, parliament and the courts.  


There had been speculation of an attempt to overthrow the government, after military vehicles were seen rolling into Harare yesterday.   


NOW READ: South Africans in Zimbabwe urged to keep contact


Gunfire was heard near the presidential compound. However, the army says president Robert Mugabe is "safe" adding that it's only looking to root out criminals around the 93-year-old leader. 


Opposition members like Promise Mkwanazi are convinced it is a coup, in all but name. He's told Sky News that a military takeover is underway and that they've chosen not to label it a coup.


"It appears that the military is in control - although they try to act as if they are not but the reality is that they have taken control of the country as we speak," he says.


ALSO READ: Military takes to streets in Zimbabwe but denies coup


There have been reports that the Finance Minister's been arrested. Local news site, News24 is also reporting that President Mugabe's under heavy guard.   


Meanwhile, International Relations here says it's continuing to monitor the situation very closely - they're advising South Africans there to keep in constant contact with the Embassy. Both the UK and the US have warned their citizens in the country to remain at home. 


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