Bulawayo civic group backs Zanu-PF's Constitutional Amendment push

The Bulawayo provincial leadership of the National Organisation for Development and Empowerment (NODE) has thrown its weight behind the ruling ZANU–PF's push for Constitutional Amendment No. 3, saying the proposed reforms could strengthen governance and support the country's development agenda.

The Bill, gazetted in mid-February, proposes major changes to Zimbabwe's governance framework, including the election of the President by Parliament through a joint sitting of the National Assembly and Senate. It also seeks to extend the presidential term from the current five years to seven years.

Speaking in an interview in Bulawayo, NODE Bulawayo provincial chairperson Eddie Benson Muchenje said the organisation supports initiatives that align with Zimbabwe's long-term development goals.

"Development requires stability, continuity and strong institutions. As an organisation that works directly with communities, we believe constitutional reforms that strengthen governance frameworks are important in ensuring Zimbabwe continues on its development path," Muchenje said.

Founded in 2012, NODE focuses on community empowerment and social support programmes targeting disadvantaged and vulnerable groups.

Muchenje said the organisation's work aligns with the government's development vision of ensuring that "no one and no place is left behind" as Zimbabwe works towards achieving upper-middle-income status by 2030.

He noted that grassroots organisations such as NODE play a crucial role in bridging the gap between national policy and community development, adding that many challenges faced by ordinary citizens require coordinated efforts between government and civic actors.

"Our work on the ground exposes us daily to the realities faced by vulnerable communities, particularly widows, orphans, people with disabilities and young people struggling to find opportunities," he said.

"That is why we support governance frameworks that promote policy consistency and long-term planning. Constitutional Amendment No. 3 must be viewed within the broader context of building a stable political environment that allows development programmes to flourish."

Muchenje added that stability in leadership and policy direction is critical if Zimbabwe is to achieve its economic transformation agenda.

"Zimbabwe has set a clear target of becoming an upper-middle-income economy by 2030, and that vision requires sustained leadership and policy continuity," he said.

"From the perspective of community organisations like NODE, reforms that enhance governance efficiency will ultimately benefit ordinary citizens because they allow development programmes to be implemented without unnecessary disruption."