Biti reportedly arrested

Zimbabwe's political tensions have escalated following the detention of former Finance Minister Tendai Biti, who was arrested alongside several activists while reportedly organising a rally in Mutare.

Biti's civic organisation, the Constitution Defenders Forum, said he was engaged in mobilisation efforts when he was picked up by police. Authorities have not yet issued an official statement on the arrest, and his whereabouts remain unclear, raising concern among supporters and rights groups.

The arrest comes against the backdrop of a contentious push by President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his ruling party, ZANU-PF, to amend the constitution. The proposed changes would extend presidential terms from five to seven years and shift the election of the president from a public vote to a parliamentary process—moves that could allow Mnangagwa to remain in power until 2030.

Opposition figures and civic groups, including Biti, have strongly resisted the proposals, arguing they undermine democratic principles and constitutional safeguards. Critics also maintain that such amendments would require a national referendum and should not apply to a sitting president.

Bulawayo mayor David Coltart publicly condemned Biti's detention, suggesting it was linked to his vocal opposition to the reforms. He questioned the government's approach, characterising it as heavy-handed and indicative of broader concerns about political intolerance.

Reports from activists indicate that individuals campaigning against the constitutional changes have faced intimidation and, in some cases, violence, further heightening fears about shrinking political space.

The developments signal a deepening standoff between the government and its critics, with potential legal battles looming as stakeholders prepare to challenge the proposed constitutional amendments in court.