Zimbabwe coalition condemns threats against leaders, demands police probe

Zimbabwean coalition Sungano YeVanhu has condemned threats against its convener, Reverend Kupa Mtata, labeling them a grave assault on constitutional democracy. The group, comprising political parties and civic organizations, is campaigning against the Constitution Amendment (No. 3) Act.

In a statement Wednesday, the coalition asserted that the threatening message received by Mtata is part of a wider pattern of intimidation targeting its leaders. It highlighted that prominent figures, including constitutional law expert Professor Lovemore Madhuku, former Finance Minister Tendai Biti, and activist Jacob Ngarivume, have also experienced threats and harassment. A banner at Mtata's church was recently vandalized with profane and threatening messages.

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The threatening message cannot be dismissed as a prank or an isolated incident. It comes against the backdrop of a disturbing pattern of threats, intimidation and harassment directed at leaders of our Coalition and its founding member institutions.

"The threatening message cannot be dismissed as a prank or an isolated incident. It comes against the backdrop of a disturbing pattern of threats, intimidation and harassment directed at leaders of our Coalition and its founding member institutions," the coalition stated. The group argued that such actions stifle democratic participation and erode constitutionally protected freedoms.

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Our advocacy is grounded in the Constitution of Zimbabwe and seeks to ensure that constitutional questions are addressed through lawful and democratic means.

Sungano YeVanhu reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful advocacy based on constitutionalism, the rule of law, and popular sovereignty. "Our advocacy is grounded in the Constitution of Zimbabwe and seeks to ensure that constitutional questions are addressed through lawful and democratic means," the statement read. The coalition emphasized that defending the constitution and expressing dissent are rights protected by Zimbabwe's supreme law.

"Defending the Constitution is not a crime. Holding views that differ from those in positions of authority is not a crime. Every Zimbabwean has the constitutional right to freedom of expression, association and peaceful participation in public affairs without fear of threats, intimidation or violence," it added. The coalition implored the police to conduct a prompt, thorough, and impartial investigation into the alleged threats and ensure Mtata receives equal protection. They also appealed to political leaders, churches, civil society, public institutions, regional bodies, and the international community to reject political intimidation and uphold constitutional rights.

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Defending the Constitution is not a crime. Holding views that differ from those in positions of authority is not a crime. Every Zimbabwean has the constitutional right to freedom of expression, association and peaceful participation in public affairs without fear of threats, intimidation or violence.