Peter Tanyanyiwa
Online Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Christian Ministers Association (ZCMA) has thrown its weight behind the proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, describing it as a progressive step towards ensuring national stability, continuity and accelerated development.
ZCMA president and chief executive officer, Bishop Christopher Choto, said the association, which represents a broad network of church leaders across the country, believes the proposed amendment will address challenges that often arise after elections.
“We are excited by the proposed Bill No. 3 because it is coming as a solution to some of the challenges that have been affecting our nation,” said Bishop Choto.
“As the Church, we have observed that after every election, there has been contestation, disagreements, and at times violence. This Bill seeks to bring lasting peace, stability and allow the nation to focus on development.”
The ZCMA, an influential Christian body that has been actively involved in community development, peace-building initiatives and social welfare programmes, said its support is anchored on the need to foster unity and create a conducive environment for economic growth.
Bishop Choto said the proposed extension of presidential terms under the amendment would provide sufficient time for developmental programmes to be fully implemented.
“When leadership is given adequate time, it allows for continuity of policies and completion of national projects. Development cannot thrive in an environment of constant political contestation,” he said.
He commended President Emmerson Mnangagwa for spearheading transformative programmes aimed at improving livelihoods and driving the country towards an upper middle-income economy.
“We are proud of the development taking place in our nation. The President has demonstrated commitment to transforming Zimbabwe, and as the Church, we believe such efforts must be supported,” Bishop Choto said.
The cleric noted that the Church has a critical role to play in promoting national vision and ensuring citizens understand and actively participate in development initiatives.
In line with this, ZCMA is planning to host a national Vision 2030 conference aimed at unpacking the country’s development agenda and mobilising churches and faith-based organisations to contribute meaningfully.
“Our focus now is on Vision 2030. We want to ensure that the Church and all sectors understand where the nation is going and how they can plug into that vision,” said Bishop Choto.
“We are organising a conference that will bring together various stakeholders, particularly from the faith sector, to unpack the national agenda and align our efforts towards achieving Vision 2030.”
He said the conference, expected to be held at the Harare International Conference Centre, will take place once adequate sponsorship has been secured.
“We are currently engaging potential sponsors, and once everything is in place, we are targeting to host the conference in May. It will be a platform to cast the vision, provide clarity and ensure everyone understands their role in national development,” he said.
Bishop Choto emphasised that development is a collective responsibility that requires the participation of all sectors, including the Church, business community and ordinary citizens.
“Vision 2030 is about our lives and the future of our children. It is important that every Zimbabwean understands it and plays their part. The Church stands ready to support initiatives that bring transformation, peace and prosperity,” he said.
He urged Zimbabweans to embrace the proposed constitutional amendment and work together towards building a stable and prosperous nation.
“As the Church, we encourage our people to support this noble initiative for the sake of continuity, peace and development. When we are united and focused, we can achieve the Zimbabwe we all desire,” Bishop Choto said.
Online Reporter