Zanu PF Youths Drive Opposition Withdrawal from Term Extension Hearings

Opposition parties and pressure groups withdrew from Zimbabwe's Parliament-led public hearings on Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, demanding a restart due to reported violence and intimidation. Zanu PF youths disrupted proceedings in Harare, causing chaos and assaulting opposition figures and journalists. Critics alleged these actions suppressed dissenting voices regarding proposed amendments that could extend President Mnangagwa’s term. Supporters argue the Bill streamlines governance, while opponents, including Nelson Chamisa, label it a "constitutional coup." Critics further claimed the hearings were orchestrated, not consultative, with Parliament accused of sidelining opposition. Human rights lawyer Doug Coltart was attacked, and journalists faced demands to delete footage. Opposition leaders, including Tendai Biti, explicitly withdrew, indicating a shift towards extra-parliamentary resistance. Bottom Line: This disruption of constitutional consultation processes exposes a power struggle over legislative control, forcing opposition to seek alternative leverage outside formal channels.