Police on High Alert as Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Debate Intensifies

HARARE — The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has warned that it will take firm action against any individuals or groups attempting to incite violence or public disorder during ongoing national debate and parliamentary deliberations on the controversial Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB 3).

In a statement issued on Wednesday, ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said police had heightened security measures across the country and would closely monitor activities, particularly on social media platforms, where authorities say inflammatory messages and threats can quickly spread. The warning comes as Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 continues to generate heated political debate, with supporters and critics sharply divided over proposed changes to Zimbabwe's Constitution.

Commissioner Nyathi said the police expected citizens to exercise their constitutional rights peacefully while respecting public order and national security.

“As the country follows the ongoing Constitutional Amendment Bill Number Three (CAB 3) deliberations in the August House, the Zimbabwe Republic Police expects peace and the general maintenance of law and order to be observed by Zimbabweans,” Nyathi said.

He warned that law enforcement agencies would not hesitate to act against individuals or organised groups accused of encouraging violence, destruction of property, or public disturbances.

“In this regard, the police reiterates that the law will take effect on anyone, whether individuals, groups, or syndicates, who incite violence and issue threats to Zimbabweans through social media,” he said.

The police statement specifically highlighted concerns about online platforms being used to mobilise unlawful activities or spread messages capable of causing public alarm. Authorities warned that any attempts to encourage unrest, disrupt traffic, damage infrastructure, or incite resistance against the government would attract legal consequences.

“Any attempt to influence Zimbabweans to revolt against the Government, destroy property, affect the smooth flow of traffic, and cause alarm and chaos will be responded to appropriately by the Police through the full wrath of the law,” Nyathi said.

The remarks come amid increased online discussion surrounding CAB 3, with political parties, civil society organisations, legal experts, and citizens debating the implications of the proposed constitutional amendments.

Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 seeks to introduce several significant changes to Zimbabwe's governance framework, including extending the terms of office for the President, Members of Parliament, and local authority councillors from five years to seven years. The Bill has sparked legal and political challenges, with critics arguing that some of the proposed amendments require broader public consultation or a referendum.

Supporters maintain that the amendments can be lawfully enacted through Parliament under existing constitutional procedures. The issue has become one of the most closely watched political developments in Zimbabwe, attracting attention from legal practitioners, opposition parties, civil society groups, and international observers.

Nyathi said the police remained committed to maintaining peace and ensuring that citizens could continue their daily activities without disruption.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is on high alert to ensure that Zimbabweans continue to enjoy the safety and security obtained in the country,” he said.

Authorities urged members of the public to report any individuals or groups involved in activities that threaten public order. Citizens were encouraged to contact the police through the National Complaints Desk or report concerns at their nearest police station. As the parliamentary debate on CAB 3 continues, authorities are expected to maintain heightened vigilance amid growing public interest in the proposed constitutional reforms.

CAB 3 Zimbabwe