Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata-Herald Correspondent
The Progressive and Patriotic Citizens of Zimbabwe (PAPCOZ) has urged Zimbabweans to shun demonstrations planned for tomorrow (July 31) against the enactment of Constitutional Amendment Act No. 3 of 2026 and called for peace, national unity and respect for the rule of law.
In a statement, PAPCOZ said citizens should express their differences through peaceful, lawful and constitutional means rather than engaging in demonstrations that could result in violence and destruction of property.
“PAPCOZ strongly urges all Zimbabweans to refrain from participating in any unlawful demonstrations and instead continue to uphold peace, national unity and respect for the rule of law,” reads the statement.
PAPCOZ said the Constitutional Amendment Act No. 3 of 2026 has gone through the constitutional and legislative processes required by law before being enacted.
The organisation said the process included public consultations, parliamentary debate, scrutiny by relevant parliamentary committees and consideration by both Houses of Parliament, before the Bill received Presidential assent.
“Having completed these lawful processes and received Presidential assent, it is now the law of Zimbabwe and must be respected as such,” reads the statement.
The organisation said while differences of opinion were legitimate in a constitutional democracy, these should be expressed through lawful channels.
“Resorting to unlawful demonstrations that may lead to violence and destruction of property serves no national interest and only threatens public safety, economic stability and the well-being of ordinary citizens.”
PAPCOZ also called on young Zimbabweans to reject attempts to incite disorder and undermine peace through what it described as unlawful and unconstitutional demonstrations.
The organisation urged citizens to focus on national development, community building and contributing positively to the country’s development aspirations.
It also commended State institutions for carrying out their constitutional mandates during the legislative process and urged Zimbabweans to respect the country’s constitutional order and democratic institutions.
“Zimbabwe’s progress depends on peace, stability and unity. Let us safeguard these national values by resolving differences through dialogue, lawful engagement and mutual respect,” reads the statement.
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