Zimbabwe Rights Watchdog Reports Intimidation at Constitutional Hearings

The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) has reported acts of intimidation and restricted participation at public hearings on proposed constitutional changes. The human rights watchdog made the statement despite noting strong public interest and high turnout at the hearings across the country. The ZHRC did not specify who was responsible for the alleged intimidation. The commission's role is to protect human rights and democratic practices in Zimbabwe. Public hearings are a formal part of the process for amending the nation's constitution. The proposed changes have generated significant national debate.