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\u201cViolence, Chaos and Intimidation Rock Masvingo Constitutional Hearing<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
By A Correspondent \u2013 A public hearing on Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 at Chidzikwe Primary School in Masvingo descended into controversy amid serious allegations of intimidation, political manipulation, and the systematic exclusion of dissenting voices.<\/p>\n
The meeting on Wednesday, part of a nationwide outreach programme by the Parliament of Zimbabwe, was reportedly dominated by ruling party supporters allegedly ferried in to influence the process.<\/p>\n
Observers described the proceedings as heavily choreographed, warning that this undermined the very essence of public consultation.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat we witnessed was not a genuine consultation, but a stage-managed process designed to produce a predetermined outcome,\u201d said one observer.<\/p>\n
Ward 10 Councillor Sengerai Manyanga, identified as a ZANU-PF member, was accused of controlling access to the microphone and selectively allowing contributions only from individuals perceived to support the ruling party.<\/p>\n
Critics argue that this gatekeeping effectively shut out alternative viewpoints and denied ordinary citizens a fair chance to be heard.<\/p>\n
Tensions flared further when Esau Mutanho, a controversial political figure, allegedly issued threats against human rights defenders attempting to participate.<\/p>\n
Among those reportedly targeted were Fidelis Matende, Prosper Tiringindi, and Brigton Ramusi, who were blocked from speaking and subjected to intimidation.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey were deliberately denied a platform and intimidated for simply wanting to contribute,\u201d said a source familiar with the incident.<\/p>\n
Human rights observers have strongly condemned the developments, warning that such conduct erodes democratic principles and casts doubt on the credibility of the constitutional reform process.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe failure to provide a safe and open platform for all citizens, especially those with dissenting views, fundamentally undermines the legitimacy of this process,\u201d said one rights advocate.<\/p>\n
Critics argue that the events in Chidzikwe reflect a troubling pattern in which public hearings are used to simulate consultation while suppressing genuine debate. Without equal opportunity for participation, they insist, the process cannot be considered free, fair, or representative.<\/p>\n
As outrage grows, calls are mounting for authorities to ensure that future hearings are conducted transparently, without intimidation, and in full respect of citizens\u2019 constitutional rights.<\/p>\n
\u201cZimbabweans deserve a process that reflects their true voices, not one shaped by fear and exclusion,\u201d another observer said.<\/p>\n
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