ZANU-PF warns of disciplinary action over alleged phone snatching incident at public hearing

Douglas Coltart

HARARE — ZANU-PF Treasurer-General Patrick Chinamasa has warned that Central Committee member Luckmore Tinashe Gapa could face disciplinary action if allegations that he grabbed a cellphone from human rights lawyer Douglas Coltart are proven in court. The alleged incident occurred last week at the City Sports Centre in Harare during a public hearing on the Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, where tensions have been high amid nationwide consultations.

Photos and videos circulating on social media appear to show a man, alleged to be Gapa, taking Coltart’s phone during the proceedings. The footage has sparked widespread debate and condemnation online, though authorities have not yet publicly confirmed the identity of the individual involved. Coltart is reported to have filed a complaint with the Zimbabwe Republic Police, setting the stage for a possible criminal investigation.

In a statement posted on X, Chinamasa described the allegations as serious and potentially damaging to the party’s reputation.

“This allegation is serious and highly defamatory against Cde Gapa, and causes reputational damage to the public image of ZANU-PF as an ideologically sound revolutionary party,” he said.

He emphasised that the matter should be handled through legal channels and that any disciplinary action would depend on the outcome of court proceedings.

“If the allegations are proven true in a court of law, this will constitute damning evidence… and he would not escape disciplinary charges,” Chinamasa said.

According to Chinamasa, if convicted, Gapa would be referred to the party’s National Disciplinary Committee, chaired by Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri. He stressed that membership in the Central Committee requires high ethical standards.

“The ZANU-PF Central Committee is the highest organ of the party between Congresses and is made up of people of high integrity and probity,” he said. “It will not have room for someone convicted of snatching or stealing cellphones from members of the public.”

The incident comes at a sensitive time, as public hearings on constitutional reforms have drawn strong views from both supporters and critics. Legal analysts say the case will hinge on evidence presented in court, including the authenticity and context of the circulating video footage. Media lawyer Tinashe Chikura said:

“If a criminal complaint has been filed, the matter must follow due process. Video evidence can be compelling, but it must be verified and contextualised.”

The case has attracted significant public attention, highlighting broader concerns about conduct at political events and the importance of accountability. As investigations proceed, both political and legal outcomes are likely to shape perceptions around governance, rule of law, and party discipline in Zimbabwe.

ZANU PF Gapa Coltart incident