CDF Calls For Fresh Public Hearings On Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3

HARARE – The Constitution Defenders Forum (CDF) has urged Parliament to reconvene public hearings on the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Bill No. 3 of 2026 citing that the initial outreach failed to adequately capture ordinary citizens’ views. In a letter dated 10 April 2026 addressed to Speaker of Parliament, Jacob Mudenda, the civic group said the hearings held between 30 March and 2 April were inadequate and did not allow for meaningful public participation.

CDF, represented by Tinashe Chinopfukutwa and Kelvin Kabaya of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), raised concerns over reports of intimidation, harassment and violence during some of the hearings, alleging that dissenting voices were targeted, creating a chilling effect on participation. “Public hearings on the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Bill No. 3 were marred by intimidation, violence and the exclusion of citizens with dissenting views, undermining meaningful public participation,” reads the letter.

“The hearings appeared to favour individuals supporting the Bill, with some opposing voices reportedly denied the opportunity to contribute. “They fell short of Section 67(1)(d) of the Constitution, which guarantees citizens the right to participate in public affairs and influence government policy, and Section 328(4), which obliges Parliament to convene public meetings and provide appropriate facilities for citizen participation.” CDF said Parliament should reconvene the public hearings before the 90 days for public submissions lapse, around 18 May 2026. It added that Parliament should put in place measures, including increased security at the reconvened hearings, to ensure members of the public can freely, reasonably and adequately express their views on the proposed amendments without fear.