Chamisa says CAB3 'not a done deal'

Former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa has dismissed suggestions that Constitution Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3) is a foregone conclusion, arguing that citizens remain the ultimate authority in determining Zimbabwe's political future.

In a statement posted on social media, Chamisa challenged assertions that the controversial constitutional amendment has already been settled, saying any arrangement lacking public participation and consent cannot be considered legitimate.

"Those claiming that CAB3 is a ‘done deal' are either deluding themselves or deliberately attempting to mislead. Deep down, they know that nothing without the citizens is ever final," Chamisa said.

The remarks come as debate continues over CAB3, which recently secured the required two-thirds majority in the National Assembly and is expected to proceed to the Senate for further consideration.

The Bill has generated intense political discussion, with supporters arguing that it will promote stability and continuity in governance, while opponents contend that it could weaken constitutional safeguards and democratic accountability.

Chamisa said citizens must remain at the centre of any process that seeks to alter the country's constitutional framework.

"In any society, nothing can be done for the citizens without the citizens. The citizens are the ultimate decision-makers; they alone have the authority to endorse, reject, or seal any deal," he said.

The opposition figure maintained that no binding agreement exists on CAB3 because ordinary Zimbabweans have not yet given their consent to the proposed changes.

"As things stand, there is no done deal. In fact, there is no deal at all. Any arrangement that lacks the consent and participation of the citizens remains incomplete and illegitimate," he said.

Chamisa also claimed that growing public frustration over governance issues and constitutional changes was strengthening citizens' determination to assert their rights and influence the country's future direction.

"If there is one reality that cannot be ignored, it is this: the citizens are increasingly tired of those who oppress, disregard and undermine their rights," he said.

He argued that the real political shift taking place may not be the advancement of CAB3 through Parliament, but rather what he described as a growing desire among citizens to reclaim their voice and influence national affairs.

"The only ‘done deal' may well be that citizens are done with oppression and are ready to reclaim their voice, their power and their future," Chamisa said.

His comments add to the widening national debate over CAB3, which has drawn reactions from political parties, civil society organisations, constitutional experts and regional figures.

The Bill's supporters maintain that it is intended to strengthen governance structures and provide long-term political certainty, while critics argue that constitutional amendments should only proceed with broad public consensus and participation.

With CAB3 now awaiting consideration by the Senate, the political contest over the proposed constitutional changes appears set to intensify in the coming weeks as both supporters and opponents seek to influence public opinion and the legislative process.