Harare CAB3 Hearings See Clashes, Obstruct Public Discourse

Public hearings for Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3) at Harare's City Sports Centre experienced disruptions, including reports of violence and intimidation. Suspected ZANU PF supporters allegedly targeted opposition figures and journalists, impacting public engagement on the proposed legal changes. Rights lawyer Doug Coltart was reportedly assaulted and his phone stolen, illustrating tensions between those supporting and those opposing constitutional amendments. Critics contend these actions compromise democratic participation, while government officials have not commented on the alleged involvement of ruling party elements. Such incidents during CAB3 consultations could escalate political tensions, posing a challenge to the integrity of the constitutional amendment process. Bottom Line: These events represent a direct exercise of power to control public narrative, potentially diminishing the perceived legitimacy of the amendment process.