Zimbabwean authorities deployed anti-riot police in the capital, Harare, on Thursday in advance of protests planned for the following day against recent constitutional changes. The demonstrations were called by opposition figures and civil society groups to contest the enactment of Constitutional Amendment (No. 2) Act, which alters the processes for judicial appointments and other governance structures.
The increased police presence was visible throughout Harare’s central business district and in some residential areas on Thursday afternoon and evening. Local media reports indicated that the deployments were a preparatory measure for the planned shutdown and street demonstrations scheduled for Friday.
The protests were organized in response to President Emmerson Mnangagwa signing the Constitutional Amendment (No. 2) Act into law earlier in the month. The legislation introduces several significant changes to Zimbabwe’s 2013 constitution.
Key provisions of the act include granting the president the authority to appoint the chief justice, deputy chief justice, and judge president without subjecting them to public interviews. It also allows for the extension of the retirement age for senior court judges from 70 to 75, subject to a medical report certifying their fitness. Additionally, the amendment removes a clause that required presidential candidates to run on a joint ticket with their vice-presidential nominees.
Government officials have defended the amendments. Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi previously stated in Parliament that the changes align Zimbabwe’s charter with practices in other countries in the region and enhance the efficiency of the judiciary. Proponents argued the measures were necessary for stable governance.
However, the changes have drawn criticism from opposition parties and legal experts. The primary opposition party, the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) Alliance, has stated the amendments undermine the separation of powers and consolidate authority within the executive branch. Critics argue that altering the process for judicial appointments compromises the independence of the courts.
In a statement preceding the planned demonstrations, Zimbabwe’s national police spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, cautioned the public against participating in unsanctioned gatherings, citing existing public health regulations.
Reports from Harare on Friday noted a subdued atmosphere in the city, with many businesses operating cautiously. The planned large-scale demonstrations did not materialize as anticipated, though the police maintained a significant presence throughout the day.
 Act. The law revises judicial appointments and governance, drawing criticism. Protests remained subdued.){kind=link}