Huge backing for Amendment No. 3 Bill

Thousands of Zimbabweans participated in the first day of public hearings on the proposed Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Bill No. 3, with many attendees across multiple provinces expressing support for the proposed changes, including provisions related to presidential term extensions.

The hearings, organised by the Parliament of Zimbabwe, form part of a 90-day public consultation process that began on February 17 after the Bill was gazetted. Members of the public are also able to submit written inputs through designated submission points, including a deposit box at the old Parliament Building in Harare.

From Harare to Manicaland, Mashonaland East, Mashonaland West, Midlands and both Matabeleland provinces, venues were reported to have been filled with residents from various sectors, including chiefs, religious leaders, youth groups, civil society representatives, farmers, businesspeople and persons with disabilities.

In several areas, attendance was so high that some participants were forced to follow proceedings from outside the venues. Parliamentary teams led sessions across districts, with contributions highlighting a desire for what many described as developmental continuity, political stability and reduced election frequency.

Across most provinces, speakers linked their support for the Bill to expectations of long-term infrastructure development and improved governance efficiency. Many argued that longer electoral cycles and policy continuity would allow government projects to be completed without disruption.

In Harare, where more than 5,000 people attended a session at the Chitungwiza Aquatic Complex, several contributors explicitly supported extending presidential terms. Vivian Banhire said she supported a two-year extension, arguing that ongoing projects required continuity. Another participant, Anymore Chipfunde of Nyatsime, said frequent elections were disruptive and hindered development progress. Elderly participant Amon Murandu said the proposed changes would promote stability and accountability.

Similar sentiments were echoed in Bulawayo, Masvingo, Mashonaland East, Mashonaland Central, Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South, where many speakers emphasised the link between political stability, investment attraction and job creation.

Traditional leaders in several provinces also voiced support for the Bill, particularly clauses relating to governance structures and their role in local administration. Some chiefs argued for greater recognition within governance systems, with Chief Zvimba expressing full support for provisions recognising traditional leadership in development processes.

In Manicaland, Chief Hata said traditional leaders had always played a role in governance and should be allowed greater freedom of participation, arguing that their historical role in communities justified continued involvement in political processes.

Chairpersons of Parliamentary Portfolio Committees overseeing the consultations said the outreach programme is designed to ensure constitutional compliance with public participation requirements. Senator Kucaca Phulu said the process aligns with Section 141 and Section 328 of the Constitution, which require public involvement in legislative and constitutional amendment processes.

Other committee members described the hearings as generally peaceful and successful, noting that participants were given opportunities to express their views freely, while also being reminded to maintain respectful conduct.

Several contributors, including professionals and legal practitioners, linked their support to structural governance reforms. Some argued that rationalising state institutions and reducing duplication among commissions could improve efficiency and resource allocation.

In Mashonaland Central, speakers including farmers, miners and small business operators emphasised the importance of political stability in attracting investment and ensuring economic growth. Similar views were echoed in Mashonaland West, where participants supported proposals such as extended presidential terms, merging of commissions, and appointment of additional senators on merit.

The consultation process continues across all provinces, with additional hearings scheduled in districts including Chipinge, Chimanimani, Buhera, Hwange, Bubi and others. Parliamentary committees are expected to conclude the nationwide outreach programme within the stipulated timeframe.

Officials say the process remains open to both oral and written submissions, with Parliament emphasising inclusivity and public participation as key principles guiding the constitutional reform process.