Online Reporter
Gibson Mhaka
Zimpapers Politics Hub
THOUSANDS of Zimbabweans thronged public venues across the country’s 10 provinces on Monday to participate in the first day of public consultations on the Constitutional Amendment Bill (No. 3), with many expressing support for the proposed changes, including the extension of the election cycle.
The public hearings, which are set to run from March 30 to April 2, mark a critical stage in the country’s constitutional reform process, giving citizens an opportunity to directly contribute to shaping the supreme law.
Across all 10 provinces, large crowds gathered at designated centres, reflecting growing public interest and engagement in the proposed amendments.
The hearings are part of a broader 90-day consultation period that commenced on February 17 following the gazetting of the Bill.
Participants from across the social and political spectrum took the floor to present their views, with the majority linking their support for the Bill to the need for policy continuity, political stability and accelerated national development.
Many contributors emphasised that frequent electoral cycles often disrupt long-term planning and implementation of major projects, arguing that the proposed amendments would create an environment conducive to sustained economic growth.
“We have seen the good works,” was a common sentiment echoed at several centres, as speakers pointed to ongoing infrastructure development projects as evidence of the need for continuity in leadership.
A significant number of participants supported proposals to extend the presidential term, arguing that a longer tenure would allow leaders to fully implement their development agendas without the disruption of frequent elections.
Contributors noted that sectors such as infrastructure, health and education require long-term planning and consistent policy direction, which can only be achieved through stable leadership.
“Building a nation is a process that requires time, consistency and focus. Extending the term will ensure that projects are completed and communities begin to enjoy the full benefits of development programmes,” said one participant during hearings in Bulawayo.
Others expressed confidence that the proposed amendments would enhance efficiency in governance and strengthen institutions, creating a more predictable policy environment that can attract both domestic and foreign investment.
The role of traditional leaders also featured prominently in the discussions, with many supporting proposals to clarify and expand their participation in national processes.
Participants argued that empowering traditional leaders would strengthen grassroots governance and ensure that community interests are effectively represented.
Meanwhile, Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Zimbabwe leader Mr Innocent Ndibali hailed the massive turnout, describing it as a clear indication of public support for the Bill.
In an interview, Mr Ndibali said the overwhelming attendance and active participation demonstrated that Zimbabweans were embracing the consultative process and backing the proposed constitutional changes.
“The turnout was massive and it is a testament that people are supporting the proposed changes.
“The contributions from residents were very mature and clearly showed that the majority of the people are in support of the Bill,” he said.
Mr Ndibali said his party had consistently supported the Constitutional Amendment (No. 3) Bill, adding that there was nothing unusual about some of the proposed changes, including the extension of the presidential term.
“We have been very clear as EFF Zimbabwe that we are in full support of the Constitutional Amendment (No. 3) Bill.
“We have been on record saying there is nothing wrong with extending the President’s term from five to seven years,” he said.
He criticised some opposition figures and activists who have been campaigning against the Bill, accusing them of misleading the public and misrepresenting the proposed amendments.
Mr Ndibali said the proposal for Parliament to elect the President was in line with practices in other countries and should not be viewed as controversial.
“In South Africa, the President is chosen through Parliament and there is nothing wrong with that.
“Under proportional representation, those elected into Parliament are trusted by the people to make such decisions, including electing the President,” he said.
He added that the high attendance at the hearings had effectively countered narratives from detractors, demonstrating that citizens were actively engaging with the process and forming their own informed opinions.
“The huge turnout and the level of participation have shown that people are interested and are supporting these proposed changes despite the noise from detractors,” said Mr Ndibali.
In addition to oral submissions, Parliament has set up special desks at hearing venues to allow citizens to submit written contributions, ensuring broader participation from those who may not be able to speak during the sessions.
Observers noted that the orderly conduct of the hearings and the diversity of views expressed underscored the maturity of Zimbabwe’s democratic processes and the importance of inclusive governance.
The strong turnout and consistent messages emerging from various provinces indicate that the will of the people is being clearly manifested, with many citizens backing the proposed amendments as a pathway to stability and development.
Across the country, participants said the consultative process itself reflects democratic maturity, with the growing support for Bill No. 3 signalling a collective desire among Zimbabweans to shape a governance framework that prioritises continuity, inclusivity and long-term national progress.
As Zimbabwe moves forward with the constitutional review process, the strong turnout and active participation witnessed on the first day of hearings signal a nation keen to shape its future through dialogue, engagement and collective decision-making.
