Opinion / Letters
Zimbabweans in the Diaspora: Objection of the Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3
17 hrs ago |
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Dear Clerk of Parliament and Honourable Members of Parliament,
We, the Zimbabweans living in the Diaspora, write to you with deep concern and firm conviction regarding Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3. We strongly reject this proposed amendment, as it undermines the principles of democracy, constitutionalism and the will of the people of Zimbabwe.
Many of us were forced to leave our homeland due to prolonged political and economic instability, largely stemming from extended periods of leadership that failed to uphold accountability, transparency and good governance. The era of President Robert Mugabe, marked by overstaying in power, contributed significantly to the deterioration of Zimbabwe's economy, institutions and social fabric. This led to the displacement of millions of Zimbabweans across the globe in search of dignity, opportunity and survival.
Despite our displacement, we have never abandoned our commitment to Zimbabwe. We actively participated in national processes, including the Constitution Parliamentary Select Committee (COPAC), which culminated in the adoption of the 2013 Constitution. That Constitution was a product of extensive consultation, sacrifice and the collective aspirations of Zimbabweans both at home and abroad. It was designed to safeguard democracy, limit the abuse of power and ensure that no individual or group could manipulate the supreme law of the land for personal or political gain.
It is with great sadness to witness efforts to amend this Constitution in ways that appear to reverse the progress made and consolidate power rather than strengthen democratic institutions. Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 risks eroding the very safeguards that were put in place to protect Zimbabweans from the excesses of the past.
We urge Parliament to remember that the Constitution is not a tool for political convenience, but a binding social contract between the government and the people. Any amendments must reflect the genuine will of the citizens and not serve narrow interests. As Zimbabweans in the Diaspora, we remain stakeholders in the future of our nation. We call upon you to:
Zimbabwe belongs to all its citizens, regardless of where they reside. We remain committed to a democratic, prosperous, and just Zimbabwe, and we will continue to raise our voices against any actions that threaten this vision.
Yours faithfully,
Zimbabweans in the Diaspora
We, the Zimbabweans living in the Diaspora, write to you with deep concern and firm conviction regarding Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3. We strongly reject this proposed amendment, as it undermines the principles of democracy, constitutionalism and the will of the people of Zimbabwe.
Many of us were forced to leave our homeland due to prolonged political and economic instability, largely stemming from extended periods of leadership that failed to uphold accountability, transparency and good governance. The era of President Robert Mugabe, marked by overstaying in power, contributed significantly to the deterioration of Zimbabwe's economy, institutions and social fabric. This led to the displacement of millions of Zimbabweans across the globe in search of dignity, opportunity and survival.
Despite our displacement, we have never abandoned our commitment to Zimbabwe. We actively participated in national processes, including the Constitution Parliamentary Select Committee (COPAC), which culminated in the adoption of the 2013 Constitution. That Constitution was a product of extensive consultation, sacrifice and the collective aspirations of Zimbabweans both at home and abroad. It was designed to safeguard democracy, limit the abuse of power and ensure that no individual or group could manipulate the supreme law of the land for personal or political gain.
It is with great sadness to witness efforts to amend this Constitution in ways that appear to reverse the progress made and consolidate power rather than strengthen democratic institutions. Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 risks eroding the very safeguards that were put in place to protect Zimbabweans from the excesses of the past.
We urge Parliament to remember that the Constitution is not a tool for political convenience, but a binding social contract between the government and the people. Any amendments must reflect the genuine will of the citizens and not serve narrow interests. As Zimbabweans in the Diaspora, we remain stakeholders in the future of our nation. We call upon you to:
- Reject Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 in its entirety.
- Uphold the integrity and spirit of the 2013 Constitution.
- Respect the sacrifices made by Zimbabweans who contributed to its creation.
- Prioritise national interest, democratic governance and accountability over political expediency.
Zimbabwe belongs to all its citizens, regardless of where they reside. We remain committed to a democratic, prosperous, and just Zimbabwe, and we will continue to raise our voices against any actions that threaten this vision.
Yours faithfully,
Zimbabweans in the Diaspora
Source - Zimbabweans in the Diaspora
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