Public Hearings for Constitution Bill Encounter Obstacles

Public hearings for Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 commenced, sparking intense debate. The Defend the Constitution Platform (DCP) engaged international bodies, including the UN, over the controversial reforms. Speaker Jacob Mudenda stated public consultations would proceed. Yet, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) canceled a public meeting in Norton scheduled for an opposition legislator. Fears of violence loom ahead of these hearings. Civic society groups label them "cosmetic," citing limited venues and timeframe restricting public participation. The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) urged tolerance, advocating for equal rights for both supporters and opponents. The ZRP cancellation in Norton prevented a meeting at Ngoni Hall.