FORMER Finance minister and Constitution Defenders Forum (CDF) convener Tendai Biti has lashed out at President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the ruling Zanu PF, accusing them of attempting to establish a political dynasty through the contentious Constitutional Amendment Number 3 Bill (CAB3).
The proposed constitutional changes, which include extending presidential and parliamentary terms and altering the electoral system, have sparked fierce debate, with critics warning they could weaken democratic processes and entrench long-term rule.
The Bill, gazetted on February 16 this year, proposes sweeping amendments to Zimbabwe’s 2013 Constitution.
Among its most controversial provisions are the extension of presidential and parliamentary terms from five to seven years, the replacement of direct presidential elections with parliamentary selection and the transfer of voter registration responsibilities from the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission to the registrar-general.
Critics argue that these changes threaten democratic norms and could pave the way for entrenched autocratic rule.
Biti voiced the concerns during a recent appearance at Mutare Magistrates’ Court alongside Morgan Ncube, the CDF programmes director.
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Biti and Ncube were detained last month after being arrested by armed police for allegedly failing to notify authorities about a private meeting — a charge they and their organisation dismiss as legally unfounded.
The pair was remanded to May 26, 2026.
In an interview following his court appearance, Biti expressed alarm over what he described as a concerted effort by Mnangagwa’s government to undermine democratic institutions.
“There is a total clampdown and total closure of political space. It is clear that Mr Mnangagwa and Zanu PF want to establish a one-party State in Zimbabwe,” he said.
Biti argued that CAB3 is more than constitutional reform; it is a deliberate attempt to consolidate power away from the people.
“The Bill effectively abolishes open elections for the presidency. This is part of a roadmap towards autocracy and monarchy,” he said.
“They keep referencing the Munhumutapa Kingdom — an unelected monarchy — as if it were a model for future governance. After 2030, they want an unelected individual — possibly aligned with powerful figures — to ascend to the presidency.”
Biti said CDF remained committed to defending Zimbabwe’s Constitution and democracy.
“We will stand firm against this illegitimate Bill. We plan to hold public rallies and town hall meetings in various towns across Zimbabwe in the coming weeks to mobilise opposition and raise awareness about these dangerous constitutional amendments,” he said.
The organisation has notified the police of the planned gatherings and is prepared for any response.
The proposed amendments come amid growing concern from civil society groups over what they describe as increasing authoritarian tendencies under Mnangagwa’s leadership.