Student activist Takunda Mhuka remains detained at Harare Remand Prison after being arrested in April 2026 following his participation in public opposition to the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Bill (No. 3). The activist has been denied bail and continues to face charges relating to the alleged destruction of private property. His detention comes amid growing concerns about the targeting of students and activists who have publicly criticised the proposed constitutional amendments.
Takunda Mhuka is a student activist at Midlands State University in Gweru and has been actively involved in civic engagement initiatives concerning governance, constitutionalism, and democratic accountability. Alongside fellow students and civil society actors, he has consistently opposed the Cabinet-backed Constitution Amendment Bill (No. 3), arguing that the proposed amendments seek to consolidate executive power rather than strengthen democratic institutions and constitutional safeguards. The student activist has publicly called for the withdrawal of the Bill or, alternatively, for it to be subjected to a national referendum to allow citizens to determine its future.
In April 2026, Takunda Mhuka participated in constitutionally protected public engagement processes relating to the proposed amendments. Following these activities, he was arrested and accused of involvement in the destruction of private property. While authorities have maintained the criminal allegations against him, concerns have been raised regarding the circumstances surrounding his arrest, the evidence supporting the charges, and the apparent connection between the prosecution and his outspoken opposition to the constitutional amendments.
Despite multiple court appearances, the student activist has been denied bail and has remained in detention for several months. His continued incarceration has generated widespread concern among human rights defenders, student movements, and civil society organisations who view the case as part of a broader pattern of criminalising dissent and restricting civic participation in Zimbabwe.
The detention of Takunda Mhuka raises serious concerns regarding the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and participation in public affairs. Public hearings and consultations on constitutional reforms are intended to provide citizens with an opportunity to contribute to national discourse. Individuals who engage in such processes and express dissenting opinions should not face reprisals, arrest, or prolonged detention as a consequence of their participation.
The Solidarity Network considers Takunda Mhuka a prisoner of conscience whose continued detention appears directly linked to his peaceful activism and legitimate criticism of proposed constitutional changes. His case reflects growing concerns over the use of criminal proceedings to silence activists, students, and government critics who seek to participate in public debates on matters of national importance.
The Solidarity Network expresses its deep concern regarding the ongoing detention of Takunda Mhuka and the broader implications for civic space and democratic participation in Zimbabwe. The organisation believes that the ability of citizens, particularly young people and students, to engage in constitutional and political discourse without fear of retaliation is fundamental to a democratic society.
The Solidarity Network urges the authorities in Zimbabwe to:
- Immediately and unconditionally release Takunda Mhuka;
- Ensure that all charges arising from his peaceful exercise of fundamental freedoms are dropped;
- Respect and protect the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and participation in public affairs;
- End the use of criminal charges and prolonged detention to target activists, students, and government critics;
- Guarantee fair trial rights and due process for all individuals currently facing politically motivated prosecutions; and
- Create an enabling environment in which citizens can freely engage in discussions concerning constitutional reform and governance without fear of intimidation or reprisals.
The continued detention of Takunda Mhuka sends a troubling message to citizens seeking to engage in democratic processes and public debate. Justice, constitutionalism, and democratic principles require that peaceful dissent be protected rather than criminalised. Zimbabwean authorities must uphold their obligations under the Constitution and international human rights law by ensuring that activists and citizens can freely express their views without fear of arrest or detention.