Online Reporter
Victor Maphosa
Mashonaland East Bureau
Public hearings on Constitutional Amendment Bill 3 drew large crowds at Mutawatawa Business Centre in Uzumba Maramba Pfungwe (UMP) district and Murehwa’s Better Schools Programme Hall in Murehwa district on Wednesday, with residents showing strong support for the proposed changes.
Led by Marondera Central Member of Parliament Caston Matewu, the parliamentary team kicked off proceedings in the morning in UMP and later in Murehwa with a huge turnout recorded as people exercised their constitutional rights.
At both venues, the bill was unanimously backed. Residents cited the proposed extension of the election cycle from five to seven years as a key factor, saying it would allow the Government to fully implement its projects and attract investment.
“I am supporting bill number three, and extending it by seven years gives room for more development to happen, this normally will boost investor confidence,” said Mr Jona Sewera, a resident.
Another resident, Fungai Mazhindu, said that extending the Presidential term is key to expediting development.
“If we give President seven more years, he will be able to implement his vision fully. For example, right now the President has brought Air Ambulances, imagine if we give him more years, he may add more ambulances.
“We have witnessed massive development across Zimbabwe, and we want that to continue. Further, the next President will serve for seven years and that will also give him or her enough time for development.
“Precious time is wasted on electioneering. We no longer want that.”
Mr Passon Hodzi from UMP said more time should be dedicated to development.
“During the election period, the nation will not focus on development. After elections, there won’t be enough time to develop the nation,” he said.
“Five years is not enough to do meaningful development, so I strongly support the Presidential term extension,” he said.
The hearings are part of a nationwide consultation process, with the parliamentary team seeking to gather views from citizens on the proposed amendments.
