Biti slams CAB3 consultations as 'fraudulent scam'

Opposition politician Tendai Biti has strongly criticised the ongoing public consultations on Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3), describing the process as a "fraudulent scam" marked by manipulation, exclusion and alleged violence.

The hearings, which are being conducted in cities including Bulawayo, Chitungwiza and Chiredzi, form part of a nationwide parliamentary exercise to gather public views on proposed constitutional changes.

Biti claimed the process is being used to "manufacture a false consensus," alleging that participation is being tightly controlled and dissenting voices deliberately excluded.

He said, "Parliament's public consultation process that commenced today is a big fraudulent scam that reflects the desperation & immorality of the rag tag team that is pushing Agenda 2030."

Biti further alleged that crowds at some venues included individuals brought in from outside the host areas, and that speaking opportunities were restricted in favour of supporters of the bill.

At Bulawayo City Hall, he claimed only 36 people were allowed to speak before the meeting was abruptly closed, with most submissions reportedly supporting the proposed amendments.

He also alleged incidents of violence in some centres, including Nketa, where he said a speaker opposing the bill was assaulted, and others were injured as proceedings became chaotic.

Similar concerns were raised regarding consultations in Chiredzi and Chitungwiza, where Biti said participation was restricted and opposition voices were sidelined.

Authorities have not yet issued a formal response to the allegations.

Despite his criticism, Biti said opposition figures would continue attending the hearings to challenge the process, stating: "The current process is a fraud & a sham… But we shall keep on embarrassing same by our attendance. History will judge them."