Intimidation Allegations Mar Zimbabwe’s Constitutional Hearings Across the Country

Zimbabwe’s human rights watchdog has warned that public hearings on proposed constitutional changes are being undermined by intimidation and the exclusion of critics, with opponents of the bill reportedly singled out.

The Zimbabwean Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) noted strong turnout at the sessions and praised Parliament for widely promoting the hearings and inviting written submissions. However, it flagged serious risks to participants’ safety. Commission Chairperson Jessie Majome said that “whilst those in support… were able to give their views, the Commission noted the harassment and intimidation of dissenting voices.”