Tinotenda Hove – Human rights lawyer Doug Coltart was attacked by suspected supporters of ZANU-PF while leaving a public hearing on Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 at the City Sports Centre on Tuesday, 31 March.

The incident occurred amid chaotic scenes at the hearing, which had been convened to gather public input on the controversial constitutional amendments.

Reports indicate that individuals believed to oppose the Bill were blocked from making their contributions, raising concerns about the credibility of the process.

As Coltart attempted to exit the venue, he was confronted by a group of assailants who snatched his phone. When he tried to retrieve it, he was physically assaulted, and his eyeglasses were also taken.

During the attack, the group reportedly questioned Coltart’s nationality, despite him being born in Zimbabwe to Zimbabwean parents, further intensifying concerns over intolerance and intimidation at what was meant to be a public consultation forum.

“The violence at a public hearing meant to gather citizens’ views is deeply concerning,” a witness said.
“People were being blocked from speaking, and the situation quickly turned chaotic.”

Observers say the incident has cast a shadow over the integrity of the Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 consultation process, with growing fears that intimidation and violence could undermine genuine public participation.