Chinamasa defends Constitutional Amendment Bill

Debate over the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Bill, 2026, is intensifying as legal and political arguments sharpen over whether the proposed changes require a referendum and how they could reshape the country's governance system.

The Bill, gazetted on 16 February 2026, contains 21 clauses aimed at amending key provisions of the 2013 Constitution. It has triggered widespread public and political reaction, with government arguing the reforms are necessary for long-term stability, while critics describe the process as a "constitutional coup" that risks weakening democratic safeguards.

At the centre of the discussion is ZANU PF Treasurer-General Patrick Chinamasa, who has been closely involved in the amendment process since it was first tabled at the ruling party's 2024 annual conference in Bulawayo.

In an in-depth interview with ZiFM Stereo News Digital Editor Anesu Masamvu, Chinamasa explained the legal and political reasoning behind the Bill and addressed his evolving position on whether a referendum is required.

He unpacked key provisions under debate, including presidential term limits, the length of presidential terms, and proposed adjustments to the electoral system. The discussions also touched on controversial proposals relating to the method of electing the President, including suggestions around parliamentary selection versus universal adult suffrage, as well as broader implications for electoral cycles and governance structures.

Chinamasa argued that the proposed changes do not constitute an extension of presidential tenure beyond constitutional limits, and dismissed claims that the reforms amount to a "third term" agenda.

He also defended the government's position that a referendum is not necessary for the amendments to take effect, despite critics insisting that such a process is constitutionally unavoidable given the scope of the proposed changes.

The interview further explored the rationale behind the amendments, with Chinamasa linking the proposals to efforts aimed at streamlining governance, strengthening political stability, and refining the country's constitutional framework.

The Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Bill, 2026, remains one of the most contested legislative proposals in recent years, with ongoing debate expected both in Parliament and across the broader public sphere as consultations and political engagements continue.