Online Reporter
Herald Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Presidential Scholarship Alumni Association for Economic Development (ZPSAA) has called for strengthened policy continuity, institutional stability and long-term governance planning, saying such measures are critical in accelerating Zimbabwe’s march towards Vision 2030.
The association made the remarks while expressing support for Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill, which it said provides a governance framework that enables the Government to implement transformative economic and social programmes fully.
ZPSAA, which represents beneficiaries of the Zimbabwe Presidential and National Scholarship Programme, comprises professionals from various fields who were nurtured under the Presidential Scholarship initiative, introduced by the Zanu PF-led Government to advance human capital development.
Addressing journalists in Harare, ZPSAA chairperson Mr Roncemore Mhlanga said the proposed constitutional reforms would create a conducive environment for long-term planning and implementation.
“Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill presents an opportunity for Zimbabwe to consolidate its developmental trajectory through institutional stability and policy consistency,” said Mr Mhlanga.
“The proposed seven-year Presidential term creates a practical framework for long-term planning and implementation of transformative national programmes under Vision 2030. Sustainable development requires continuity, predictability and adequate time horizons for execution.
“As beneficiaries of the Presidential Scholarship Programme, we have witnessed Government’s commitment towards empowering young Zimbabweans through education, skills development and professional advancement. CAB 3 complements these national aspirations by strengthening governance systems that support long-term development,” he said.
ZPSAA vice chairperson Dr Limukani Mathe said the proposed amendment is firmly grounded within the Constitution and reflects the principles of democratic governance.
“Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill derives its legitimacy from the Constitution itself. The amendment process is being undertaken through Parliament, which is constitutionally empowered under Sections 117 and 328 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe to so so,” said Dr Mathe.
“Lawful constitutional reform strengthens constitutional governance through ensuring that institutional changes remain grounded in legality and democratic oversight instead of arbitrary political action.”
Dr Mathe said resilient constitutions across the world evolve in response to changing socio-economic and political realities.
“A modern Constitution cannot remain static in a dynamic society. Constitutional flexibility is one of the hallmarks of resilient constitutional democracies. Zimbabwe’s Constitution, adopted in 2013, must continue evolving to respond to emerging governance, developmental and institutional realities,” he said.
ZPSAA secretary for liaison and resource mobilisation Ms Tino Primrose Miga said the association’s support for Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill is informed by both national developmental priorities and international governance frameworks.
“CAB 3’s objectives are fully aligned with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030, the National Development Strategy, the African union Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals,” she said.
Prophetess Miga said the high cost of conducting harmonised elections also justified the need for reforms aimed at reducing expenditure associated with frequent electoral processes.
“A seven-year electoral cycle will allow the Government to direct more resources towards national development projects instead of repetitive electoral processes,” she said.
