Calls for referendum intensify as Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 hearings turn contentious

Calls for a national referendum are growing as public hearings on the Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3) continue across the country, with citizens raising constitutional, political and ethical concerns over proposed changes to term limits.

In a strongly worded submission to Parliament, Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi and Attorney‑General Virginia Mabhiza, concerned citizen Kennedy Kaitano urged lawmakers to halt the process and return the Bill to Cabinet for redrafting to include a referendum.

Deep divisions at public hearings

Recent hearings have revealed sharp divisions. Supporters of the Bill argue that extending terms of office for councillors, MPs and the President from five to seven years would allow leaders more time to complete development projects.

Critics, however, dismissed these arguments as weak and self‑serving. One proponent's remark - that some legislators had not yet "celebrated" their 2023 victories - sparked outrage and became symbolic of what opponents describe as misplaced priorities.

Kaitano argued that such sentiments reflect deeper systemic issues, including alleged neglect of constituents and reliance on patronage politics.

Toxic political environment under scrutiny

Supporters of the Bill also claim that Zimbabwe's "toxic" political climate disrupts governance cycles, with disputes over election results dominating the first year of a term and preparations for the next election consuming the final year.

Opponents counter that this toxicity is manufactured, accusing ZANU‑PF and state institutions of perpetuating violence, intimidation and electoral irregularities.

Kaitano's submission traces this pattern back decades - from the 1990s shooting of Patrick Kombayi, to the violent elections of the early 2000s, the disputed 2008 polls, and the 2018 post‑election shootings investigated by the Motlanthe Commission, whose findings critics say remain largely unpublished.

Concerns over violence during hearings  

The current consultation process has also been marred by reports of violence, intimidation and suppression of dissent. Incidents cited include assaults, confiscation of phones and disruption of speakers.

Particular concern has been raised over the incident involving Douglas Coltart, whose phone was reportedly snatched during proceedings.

Critics argue that the lack of accountability undermines the credibility of the entire process.

Legal arguments take centre stage

Opponents stress that extending terms of office - especially where incumbents benefit - triggers strict constitutional requirements, including the need for a referendum. Some legal interpretations suggest multiple referendums may be required.

Kaitano emphasised that term‑limit provisions are constitutional safeguards against the over‑concentration of power, warning that altering them without direct public consent would be unconstitutional.

As hearings continue, calls for a referendum are gaining momentum among civil‑society groups, legal experts and ordinary citizens.

"The central demand is clear: any significant constitutional change must be decided directly by the people," Kaitano said. "Zimbabwe needs a new approach that removes political toxicity and restores democratic integrity. Let's go for a referendum."