ERC cites security lapses at Constitutional Bill hearings

Violence and chaos at public hearings on the Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 left many citizens too scared to speak their minds openly.

Day Two Hearing Failures

• Election Resource Centre flagged security lapses plus logistical messes across venues.
• Doug Coltart suffered assault at Harare City Sports Centre amid rising tensions.
• Observers spotted organised intimidation and a coercive vibe at Beit Hall in Mutare.
• Unclear roles between committees and police let disruptions drag on unchecked.

Participation Barriers

• Large crowds and strict time limits blocked most people from sharing their views.
• No clear rules for picking speakers fueled suspicions of bias on the floor.
• Attendees now face reported victimisation after voicing opinions publicly.
• The group called for full probes to restore safety and real public input.