Tinotenda Hove – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has dismissed as “fake” a circulating statement that suggested it had endorsed planned protests against the Constitutional Amendment Bill, amid growing accusations that the State is increasingly tightening its grip on civic expression and public dissent.

Critics say the swift denial reflects a broader pattern in which authorities under the ZANU PF-led administration move quickly to shut down or discredit any messaging linked to public demonstrations, raising concerns about shrinking democratic space and the right to peaceful protest.

The disputed statement, which was shared online by social media activist Majaira Jairos, allegedly claimed that police were supporting what he described as a “peaceful” march or demonstration scheduled for 15/04/26.

The ZRP rejected the claims outright, branding them as misinformation.
In its response, the police warned against the creation and circulation of false communications attributed to the institution, targeting Majaira Jairosi and others accused of spreading the message.

“Any attempts to craft fake press statements and attribute them to ZRP will result in the law taking its course without fear or favour,” the police said, reinforcing its hardline stance.

However, civil society voices argue that the increasing use of threats and criminal warnings in response to politically sensitive discussions reflects a troubling environment where citizens’ rights to freely express themselves and organise are being placed under pressure.