Zimbabwe Braces for Anti-Constitutional Amendment Protests

• Anti-Constitutional Amendment Act (CAA3) protests planned for July 31 in Zimbabwe
• Protests center around extension of President Mnangagwa's hold on power to 2030 and grant of legislative authority over presidential elections
• Zimbabwean authorities have labeled protests as 'terrorist' threats against the government, despite constitutional guarantees of freedom of assembly and speech

Despite Zimbabwe's constitution guaranteeing freedom of assembly, speech, and protests, authorities have consistently labeled these actions as 'terrorist' threats against the government.

Harare's streets were abuzz with anti-riot police officers on Thursday, assessing the situation in anticipation of potential protests or a shutdown on Friday. The planned demonstrations are centered around the contentious Constitutional Amendment Act (CAA3), which extends President Mnangagwa's hold on power to 2030 and grants legislators authority over presidential elections. Despite Zimbabwe's constitution guaranteeing freedom of assembly, speech, and protests, authorities have labeled these actions as 'terrorist' threats against the government. Residents expressed mixed sentiments, with some residents saying police officers reassured them that business would proceed as usual, while others predicted cases of state violence.

Zimbabwe's constitution explicitly protects the right to freedom of assembly, speech, and protests. However, authorities have consistently labeled these actions as 'terrorist' threats against the government. The CAA3 amendments have been met with widespread criticism, with many viewing them as a power grab by Zanu PF. The changes also grant legislators authority over presidential elections, potentially undermining democratic processes.

The planned protests and potential state violence raise significant human rights concerns. Lawyers should be vigilant in monitoring the situation, as cases of police crackdowns on protesters could lead to compliance exposures for companies operating in Zimbabwe. The government's efforts to reassure citizens that Friday will be a normal day are likely to be tested, with many Zimbabweans choosing to stay at home and observe the situation from a safe distance.

Lawyers should watch for potential cases of state violence and police crackdowns on protesters, which could lead to human rights violations and compliance exposures.

Source: Original reporting via New Zimbabwe