Zimbabwe Opposition, Rights Groups Bemoan Passing of ‘Patriotic Bill’

Harare, Zimbabwe — Opposition and rights groups in Zimbabwe are bemoaning this week’s passing of a so-called “Patriotic Bill” by the lower house of parliament, which they say curtails several fundamental freedoms enshrined in the country’s constitution.

Lawyers say if President Emmerson Mnangagwa signs the Criminal Law Code Amendment Bill into law, it will not stand in court because it is flagrantly unconstitutional.

Among other things, the bill would authorize penalties against people found…