Social media movement launched ThisFlag citizens protest and strike across the country

JOHANNESBURG — It began on YouTube in April with one man’s frustrated lament for Zimbabwe. Wrapped in the national flag, railing against the country’s problems, Pastor Evan Mawarire broke a spell that had kept Zimbabweans silent for years, too fearful to protest their anger over government failures and abuses. On social media, his hashtag ThisFlag has…

Zimbabwe’s capital Harare was turned into a ghost town on Wednesday as residents responded to a call by #ThisFlag Citizens Movement. Striking civil servants are yet to receive June salaries amid harsh economic times. Activities in Zimbabwe’s main cities of Harare and Bulawayo virtually came to a standstill on Wednesday as most people stayed away. According…