Douglas Coltart clarifies Zimbabwe citizenship

Human rights lawyer Douglas Coltart has publicly stated that he does not hold, nor is he entitled to, British citizenship, emphasising that Zimbabwe is the only country he legally considers home.

Writing on X, Coltart explained that his ancestors arrived in Africa in the 1600s as refugees fleeing religious persecution in France, suggesting he may descend from the Huguenots - a French Protestant group displaced during the 17th century.

He stressed that, from a legal standpoint, he has no claim to British nationality and identifies solely with Zimbabwe.

The Huguenots were French Protestants who fled Europe over 300 years ago due to religious persecution, with many settling in Southern Africa and integrating into the region's colonial and post-colonial history.

Coltart's remarks appear to be aimed at addressing questions raised about his nationality and identity during recent political tensions.

The statement comes after Coltart was assaulted and robbed of his phone and glasses by suspected political activists during a public hearing on the Constitution Amendment Bill (No. 3) at the Harare City Sports Centre.

During the incident, some attackers reportedly questioned his nationality. One suspect has been identified as Luckmore Tinashe Gapa.

ZANU PF politician Patrick Chinamasa later commented on social media, linking the incident to historical political grievances and suggesting Coltart was being targeted due to his father's political background, former Cabinet Minister and Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart.

Chinamasa's remarks have further intensified debate around political intolerance and identity politics in Zimbabwe.

The incident has drawn attention to rising tensions during public consultations on constitutional reforms, with human rights advocates warning that intimidation at civic forums undermines democratic participation and free expression.