Zimbabwe: Political Violence and Controversial Constitutional Reforms

Zimbabwe is experiencing a surge in political violence and state-led intimidation following the government’s introduction of a constitutional amendment designed to extend the term of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

The ruling Zimbabwe African National Union- Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF) party is pushing forward Constitutional Amendment No 3, which was gazetted on February 16, 2026. This amendment proposes to increase the term of office for both the president and parliament from five years to seven years.

Under the current constitution, President Mnangagwa is required to step down in 2028 after completing two five-year terms. The proposed change would effectively postpone the 2028 general elections until 2030.

Crackdown on Opposition and Civil Society

Human Rights Watch reported on March 10, 2026, that Zimbabwean authorities have intensified a crackdown on critics of the term extension. The organization stated that police and unidentified armed individuals have threatened, harassed, and assaulted people opposed to the amendment.

On March 1, 2026, in Harare, between five and 10 armed men wearing balaclavas reportedly forced their way into the offices of the National Constitutional Assembly (NCA), an opposition political party.

Zimbabwe’s leaders should demonstrate their commitment to the rule of law by respecting the country’s constitution and international human rights obligations for freedom of expression and assembly. Civil society, legal experts, and ordinary people should be allowed to peacefully express their views without fear.

Idriss Ali Nassah, senior Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch

The environment of intimidation has extended to legal professionals. A prominent rights lawyer reported being beaten and told by attackers that they were not Zimbabwean.

Violence at Public Hearings

Public hearings intended to gather input on the proposed constitutional changes have turned chaotic and violent. Tensions escalated at a sports complex in the capital city of Harare, where the situation turned violent on a Tuesday.

Due to the prevalence of violence and intimidation during these proceedings, Zimbabwe’s opposition has withdrawn from the hearings regarding the bill to extend the president’s term.

Critics of the amendment view the move as an attack on the country’s democracy and a means to centralize executive power.

Constitutional Context

The struggle over term limits is part of a broader pattern of constitutional instability in Zimbabwe. Research indicates that the country’s governing documents have been amended numerous times over the last two decades, often to increase the power of the executive.

While the adoption of the 2013 Constitution was seen as a milestone, legal experts have highlighted a disconnect between constitutional ideals and their practical implementation, citing the weaponization of the law against citizens.

Amnesty International has called on Zimbabwean authorities to guarantee the safety of citizens and the right to free expression ahead of the remaining public hearings.