Evan Mawarire | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Born | Evan Mawarire 7 March 1977 |
| Nationality | Zimbabwean |
| Occupation(s) | Pastor; democratic activist |
| Years active | 2016-present as a political figure |
| Known for | 2016–17 Zimbabwe protests; #ThisFlag; opposition to Robert Mugabe |
| Spouse | Samantha Mawarire |
| Children | 3 |
Evan Mawarire (born 7 March 1977)[1] is a Zimbabwean pastor and democratic activist. He came to prominence during the 2016–17 Zimbabwe protests that challenged the rule of Robert Mugabe’s government.[2] It was reported that Mawarire urged the people of Zimbabwe to remain defiant and refuse to return to work after the protests.[3] In late 2017, it was reported by BBC News that Mawarire was acquitted by a Zimbabwe court where he faced a potential 20-year prison sentence if convicted for allegedly trying to overthrow Robert Mugabe. Thousands turned up at his hearing sparking a spontaneous social movement that challenged corruption, injustice and poverty.[4] On 13 July 2017 at least 150 lawyers stood up in court to represent Mawarire, while thousands amassed outside a Harare courthouse.[5]
- ^ "Mawarire is no saint". The Herald. 2016-07-23. Retrieved 2018-10-26.
- ^ "Evan Mawarire, Pastor Behind Zimbabwe's #ThisFlag Protest Movement, Denied Bail". Time. Retrieved 17 January 2018.
- ^ "Zimbabwe pastor Evan Mawarire calls for more protests". BBC. Retrieved 17 January 2018.
- ^ "Zimbabwe court acquits Mugabe critic Evan Mawarire". BBC News. Retrieved 11 February 2018.
- ^ "Meet Evan Mawarire, the Zimbabwean Pastor Risking His Life for Political Change". Time. Retrieved 2018-02-18.