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Zimbabwe braced for confrontation Zimbabwe braced for confrontation
(about 1 hour later)
Zimbabwe's main trade union has called for demonstrations in 34 towns and cities over the economic crisis. Zimbabwe's security forces have put up roadblocks and deployed on the streets ahead of demonstrations planned for 34 towns and cities.
The main trade union is protesting at a deep economic crisis, with inflation at about 1,000%. But the government has said the action is illegal.
The Congress of Trade Unions demands higher incomes, lower taxes and access to medicine to fight HIV/Aids.The Congress of Trade Unions demands higher incomes, lower taxes and access to medicine to fight HIV/Aids.
However the government has said the action is illegal and has vowed to use security forces to crush them. On Monday, dozens of protesting women were arrested in the capital by police.
Zimbabwe is suffering a deep economic crisis, with inflation at about 1,000%. On Monday, dozens of protesting women were arrested in the capital by police. A BBC reporter in the region says that turnout may well be low as the threat of a violent crackdown and mass arrests will put many off as will the prospect of forfeiting a day's meagre yet precious income.
The police have already begun aggressive patrols in the capital, Harare, to prevent groups gathering. The union action is supported by church groups and the main opposition party - the Movement for Democratic Change.
Roadblocks have been set up outside the city. ZCTU secretary general Wellington Chibebe said they would not be deterred by police threats.
The turnout may well be low as the threat of a violent crackdown and mass arrests will put many off as will the prospect of forfeiting a day's meagre yet precious income. "Are we not already being crushed by hunger and poverty?" he said.
National police spokesman Wayne Bzudzijena said the police would be out in full force to maintain peace and order".
"Those who want to go about their normal, legitimate business in town can do so without fear," he told AFP news agency.