Online Reporter
Samuel Kadungure
News Editor
CITIZENS of Manicaland are preparing to rally behind Constitutional Amendment Bill Number 3, as Parliament embarks on province-wide public hearings scheduled from next Monday through Thursday.
The parliamentary team will hold seven hearings across Manicaland, engaging residents on the proposed amendments.
ZANU PF provincial leaders and legal experts are urging citizens to attend in large numbers and express their support for the Bill.
The hearings will begin on March 30 at Nyamhuka Shopping Centre in Nyanga and Manica Bridge Hall in Mutasa.
On March 31, sessions will be held at Chipembere Business Centre in Makoni and Sakubva Beit Hall. The team will then move to Rimbi Business Centre in Chipinge and Chakohwa Secondary School in Chimanimani on April 1, before concluding on April 2 at Murambinda in Buhera.
ZANU PF Manicaland provincial chairman, Cde Tawanda Mukodza, emphasised the importance of these meetings, noting that they provide citizens with a platform to engage directly with the legislative process, fostering transparency and accountability.
He highlighted that Parliament seeks to gauge public opinion, ensuring that the voices of Manicaland residents are heard and considered.
Cde Mukodza explained that ZANU PF has already conducted awareness campaigns across the province, sensitising members about the party’s pro-Bill stance.
He said venues have been identified and party representatives prepared to present the party’s position.
“We have identified sharp-shooters to articulate our position on the Bill, supported by well-informed members. From cell to village level, our structures are organised and conscientised on the Bill’s importance,” he said.
He added that national leadership has directed the province to mobilise support beyond cell level, ensuring that members and supporters understand the Bill and attend the hearings in numbers.
Cde Mukodza further noted that Resolution Number One—first adopted at the Bulawayo National People’s Conference in 2024 and reaffirmed in Mutare in 2025—called for the extension of President Mnangagwa’s tenure beyond 2028. He said the Bill represents the implementation of that resolution.
“This is a long-awaited resolution, and the people want it fulfilled. Manicaland has reiterated its support, and citizens are pleased that their input has been considered. We call on all ZANU PF members and progressive forces to attend the hearings and show unwavering support. This is a defining moment for our party and our country. Let us unite, defend our position, and shape the future together. Your presence and participation will make a difference,” said Cde Mukodza.
Speaking at a joint inter-district meeting at Sakubva Beit Hall on Tuesday, ZANU PF Politburo member and lawyer, Advocate Mike Madiro, endorsed Constitutional Amendment Bill Number 3, describing it as a crucial step towards strengthening Zimbabwe’s governance framework.
“The proposed amendments fall well within the constitutional mandate and address long-standing issues. Extending the President’s tenure is not unusual in democratic nations—it ensures stability, continuity, and allows long-term development plans to be implemented without the disruptions of frequent elections. Zimbabwe needs consistent leadership to achieve Vision 2030. The upcoming public hearings reflect Government’s commitment to inclusivity, and it is vital that citizens participate and share their views. This is a people-driven process,” he said.
Advocate Madiro praised the enthusiasm shown by Mutare District residents, noting that despite negative perceptions on social media, citizens demonstrated strong motivation to defend the Bill.
“We are preaching to the converted—the people already understand the Bill. Our meetings have clarified its provisions and the party’s position, and the community is ready to engage with the parliamentary team. On the issue of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, there were some concerns, but overall, I am satisfied with the support from Mutare Urban, Mutare Rural, and Zimunya-Marange,” he added.
ZANU PF deputy provincial secretary for mines, Cde Judith Shadhaya, echoed this sentiment,
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emphasising that the Bill prioritises stability and development. “By extending Presidential and Parliamentary terms, we can focus on long-term projects that improve lives. Fewer elections mean less disruption, allowing national initiatives to progress. Countries such as South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana elect their presidents through Parliament, a system that has contributed to their stability and effective governance. The proposed Bill aligns with this model, enhancing Zimbabwe’s development trajectory. It is a game-changer,” she said.
Renowned legal expert, Advocate Dambudzo Machaya also urged members to support the Bill, stressing that it serves the nation’s best interests.
Addressing party members at Chipembere Business Centre in Makoni, he explained that the Bill stems from ZANU PF’s Resolution Number One, passed at the Bulawayo and Mutare conferences.
He dismissed calls for a referendum, arguing that they were driven by personal gain.
“This Bill originates from Resolution Number One. It does not contravene the Constitution, nor does it require a referendum. Zimbabweans have amended the Constitution 20 times already. Only changes to the Bill of Rights and Land Rights require a referendum—extending the Presidential term does not. Those pushing for a referendum are motivated by external funders. The amendments strengthen the Constitutional Court’s role in public policy and improve judicial appointments. The Bill is sound, and Parliament will soon begin consultations. It serves Zimbabwe’s interests, and we must support it,” said Advocate Machaya.
