Event Summary
On 10 March 2026, ZimRights submitted an application for clearance to the Zimbabwe Republic Police to conduct a duty bearer meeting in Chitungwiza. However, following a call for a one-on-one discussion with the police, the authorities suspended the meeting scheduled for the 17 March 2026. The police cited the necessity of observing a 90-day waiting period concerning Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3. They warned that if anyone discusses this bill during the meeting, it could lead to arrest: fostering an atmosphere of fear and intimidation. Reports by ZimRights civic space monitor from Mashonaland central province indicated that tensions have escalated significantly since the introduction of the amendment bill. They cited that in Mazowe district, police and suspected state agents besieged a man’s home based on unverified intelligence pertaining to discussions about the amendment bill. In reality, the gathering was simply a family event, illustrating the extent to which civil liberties are being curtailed under the guise of maintaining law and order.
Moreover, on 14 March 2026 in Bulawayo, an event organised by the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) Women’s Assembly to commemorate International Women’s Day was violently disrupted. Despite the police presence, they took no action as members supporting the Amendment Bill interrupted the proceedings. This incident exemplifies the hostile environment for civil society organisations and their efforts to engage in meaningful dialogue about constitutional issues. The situation deteriorated further when, on 15 March 2026, Jacob Mudenda, the ZANU-PF Secretary-General and Speaker of the National Assembly, advised party members in Masvingo to closely monitor the activities of NGOs operating within the province. This statement is perceived as a clear attempt to intimidate and inhibit NGO operations, particularly those that might mobilise opposition to Constitutional Bill No. 3.
Collectively, these events underscore a troubling trend of escalating tension and hostility towards civic engagement in Zimbabwe. The police appear increasingly willing to suppress any gatherings related to constitutional discourse, creating an atmosphere where civil society groups are reluctant to operate freely. Many organisations have reported slowing their activities out of fear of state retribution, effectively stifling public discourse and eroding democratic principles in the country