High Court judge Justice Pisirayi Kwenda has deferred to April 1 the hearing of an urgent chamber application filed by the National Constitutional Assembly (NCA), its president Lovemore Madhuku, and former Finance minister Tendai Biti.
The applicants accuse the police of failing to protect them from threats and alleged attacks linked to their opposition to the proposed Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill.
Lawyer Alec Muchadehama appeared in chambers on their behalf for case management, where parties agreed to proceed to a hearing on April 1.
The applicants say they intend to hold meetings to discuss the proposed constitutional changes during the ongoing public consultation period announced by Parliament.
Zimbabweans have been given 90 days from February 16 to submit input on the Bill, which proposes extending the current term of the president and Parliament by two years—from 2028 to 2030—and changing the method of electing the president from a direct national vote to an electoral college comprising Members of Parliament and local authority councillors.
Parliament has invited public submissions on the Constitution of Zimbabwe (Amendment) Bill No. 3 as part of the consultation process.
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Critics say the proposals would significantly alter Zimbabwe’s constitutional order and could entrench the incumbent leadership, while supporters argue the changes would streamline governance and reduce election costs.
Madhuku submitted that the NCA opposes the proposed amendments and that he has already filed a separate challenge before the Constitutional Court seeking to block the Bill.
He argued that holding meetings to debate the Bill forms part of the public consultation process and should not expose participants to intimidation or violence.
The applicants further stated that a meeting held on March 1 at Madhuku’s offices at 348 Herbert Chitepo Street in Harare was disrupted by individuals described as “goons” claiming to be Zanu PF members.
According to Madhuku, the group assaulted participants and issued further threats against those opposing the constitutional amendment.
“After the disruption of March 1, 2026, certain individuals claiming to be Zanu PF members continued to threaten the applicants and others who oppose the proposed amendment. They have even threatened us with death,” he submitted.
The applicants cite the Home Affairs minister and the Zimbabwe Republic Police Commissioner-General as respondents, arguing that law enforcement authorities have failed in their duty to protect citizens and allow lawful meetings.
“There are ongoing threats against us. The interference by the police is ongoing. Thus, the acts and omissions of the police must be urgently addressed,” Madhuku submitted.
They are asking the High Court to order the police to ensure they can hold meetings and consultations on the proposed constitutional changes without interference.