THE Zimbabwe Constitutional Movement (ZICOMO) expresses deep concern and alarm regarding the recent police raid on the office of the Zimbabwe National Students Union (Zinasu), which took place on April 15, 2026 in Milton Park, Harare.
Officers from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Law and Order Section executed this raid, reportedly leaving behind a handwritten note demanding that Zinasu president, Liberty Hamauswa, present himself to the Law and Order section.
We perceive this unprovoked action as a blatant intimidation tactic aimed at silencing the influential voice of the national students’ body, particularly in light of their unequivocal opposition to the controversial Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill.
The timing of this raid raises serious concerns about the government’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and engaging constructively with dissenting viewpoints.
Moreover, just the other day, the police arrested former Zinasu president Emmanuel Sitima, who is also youth convenor with the Defend the Constitution Platform (DCP).
Sitima was taken into custody at Harare Central Police Station, facing detention without any clear charges levelled against him.
This situation exemplifies the broader trend of hostility and repression faced by activists and organisations that are actively opposed to the amendments.
Zicomo stands shoulder to shoulder with Zinasu during this challenging time, encouraging the student body to remain resolute and not succumb to the oppressive tactics employed by the government of the day.
The ongoing harassment and maltreatment of activists rallying against the amendments is deeply troubling and reflects a disconcerting lack of tolerance for dissenting opinions — an attitude that has no rightful place in any democracy.
We call upon the security forces and law enforcement officials to respect the rights of citizens, uphold the rule of law and allow freedom of expression to flourish.
It has become increasingly apparent that the proposed amendments lack popular support among Zimbabweans, and the government’s insistence on pushing these controversial changes speaks to a desperate attempt to subdue
the voices of the people of Zimbabwe.
Zicomo remains steadfast in its commitment to mobilising citizens alongside other progressive forces to actively defend the constitution and champion the rights of all Zimbabweans.
We call upon all Zimbabweans who value and celebrate their independence to take this moment of Zimbabwe’s 46th Uhuru to increase their opposition to Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill of 2026.
In 1978, then Zanu PF spokesperson, Dr Edson Mudadirwa Zvobgo, painted the idea of an independent Zimbabwe.
He said: “. . . we are fighting for an order in which people will enjoy their liberty . . . not a situation where those with different opinions get petrified in fear of the special branch.”
This attack on students by this regime displays their departure from the founding spirit and values of our independence.
How can the elderly, including some war veterans, abuse State resources like fuel and time to arrest 22-year-olds whose only force are ideas, pens and papers?
We call upon Zimbabweans to unite in defence of their constitution.
Zicomo information and
publicity department
