THE ruling Zanu PF party has boldly asserted that it does not fear a referendum, expressing confidence that nothing can stop it from winning such a vote, as Zimbabwe prepares for public hearings on the Constitutional Amendment No 3 Bill next week.
The Bill, at the centre of Zanu PF’s political agenda, proposes to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term in office to 2030, abolish direct presidential elections, dissolve the Zimbabwe Gender Commission and extend parliamentary terms beyond 2028. Critics argue that the proposed amendments are crucial to warrant a referendum, but Zanu PF insists parliamentary approval is sufficient.
Speaking to party affiliates in Manicaland this week, Manicaland’s Provincial Affairs and Devolution minister Misheck Mugadza said the Bill did not fundamentally alter the Constitution and, therefore, a referendum was unnecessary.
“Do you think Zanu PF fears a referendum? As Zanu PF, we always win and they cannot stop us. There is no issue here. We are not violating the Constitution, so there is no need for a referendum — it is
just a postponement of the election,” he said.
Mugadza highlighted the critical role to be played by party affiliates in ensuring the Bill’s adoption.
“We are here for something good for Zanu PF and all Zimbabweans. Your work as affiliates is crucial from 30 March to 2 April, during the consultations,” he said.
Mugadza warned against resistance to the Bill, adding:
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“If you see an affiliate which does not support the Constitutional Amendment No 3 Bill, then it is not a true Zanu PF affiliate. Comrades, we need to be united during the consultations. Represent Zanu PF positively — if you do, you have represented the party. Some elements may try to destabilise us, but there is no referendum to take the Bill away. Even the opposition is aware, so affiliates should encourage every Zimbabwean to support it.”
Zanu PF Manicaland provincial political commissar Albert Nyakuedzwa reiterated that party appendages will play a key role in the consultative process.
“I organised this meeting so that we can meet and discuss the Constitutional Amendment No 3 Bill. You are going to play an important role in ensuring the Bill sails through,” he said.
The Constitutional Amendment No 3 Bill has sparked national debate, with opposition parties, civil society groups, and critics insisting that such extensive changes to presidential and parliamentary terms must be subjected to a public referendum. However, Zanu PF maintains that the Bill falls within the sole jurisdiction of Parliament and does not require public approval.
