At defining moments in the life of a nation, institutions are judged not by what they say, but by what they choose to defend.
Zimbabwe stands at such a moment today.
The ongoing national debate surrounding proposed constitutional amendments has raised serious questions about whether the people of Zimbabwe are being given a genuine and meaningful opportunity to participate in shaping the supreme law of their land.
Reports from across the country indicate that many citizens, particularly those in rural communities, are effectively excluded from the consultation process due to time constraints, distance, economic hardship and logistical barriers.
The constitution of Zimbabwe is not an ordinary document. It is the supreme expression of the people's sovereignty and the hard-won product of decades of struggle, sacrifice and national aspiration.
For this reason, the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) calls upon the media fraternity of Zimbabwe — editors, journalists, broadcasters and commentators — to rise to the historic responsibility of this moment.
The media must not limit itself to the narrow role of merely reporting official proceedings or reproducing statements from those in authority. Journalism in a constitutional democracy demands something greater.
You are not spectators in the life of this nation.
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You are citizens of Zimbabwe.
You endure the same economic hardships.
You confront the same governance challenges.
You share the same national future as the millions of Zimbabweans whose voices must be heard in matters affecting the constitution.
History has repeatedly demonstrated that when democratic values come under pressure, the courage or silence of the media often determines whether truth prevails or is buried beneath power and convenience.
We, therefore, call upon Zimbabwe’s media leadership to:
- Investigate and scrutinize the constitutional amendment process with courage and independence
- Amplify the voices of ordinary citizens whose participation is being limited or denied
- Encourage open national dialogue about the integrity of the consultation process
- Uphold the constitutional principles of transparency, accountability and democratic participation
The defence of the constitution is not the duty of politicians alone. It is the responsibility of every citizen and every institution that claims a stake in the future of Zimbabwe.
If the constitution is weakened without the full participation of the people, history will remember who spoke, who remained silent, and who chose to stand with the citizens of this country.
This is therefore a moment for the media of Zimbabwe to demonstrate that it is not merely a recorder of events, but a guardian of democratic accountability and the voice of the people.
Zimbabwe belongs to its citizens.
Its constitution must be defended by them.
* Andrease Ethan Mathibela is the chairman of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association
