Story by Kenias Chivuzhe
THE Civic Society and Churches Joint Forum (CSCJF) has declared its support for the Constitutional Amendment Number 3 Bill, which is aimed at ensuring the country’s roadmap towards Vision 2030 is not disrupted by electoral cycles.
The CSCJF said it is unanimous in backing the proposed amendment, which seeks to extend presidential and parliamentary terms from five to seven years, describing the move as critical in consolidating economic gains under the Second Republic.
Mashonaland East CSCJF provincial coordinator, Mr Edmond Machisvo, outlined developments that have informed the organisation’s position.
“As the Civil Society in Mashonaland East province, we are in support of the Constitutional Amendment Bill. We are happy with the great works being done by President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa that include road rehabilitation and improvements in electricity supply. We are witnessing youth and women’s empowerment being advanced,” he said.
“The amendment bill helps to stabilise the country politically by avoiding frequent elections. It also gives legislators power to elect the President, which is not a new system with the US among countries using the same system. Seven years gives leaders time to fully implement their development visions.”
CSCJF Manicaland provincial coordinator, Mr Walter Nyakunu said economic growth indicators support the call for continuity in leadership.
“We are supporting Vision 2030 as we are seeing tangible development results. Zimbabwe’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was around US$22 billion in 2017 when the Second Republic led by President Dr Mnangagwa took over. In 2026, Zimbabwe’s GDP is approximately US$55 billion. Given the unparalleled growth being expressed within the country, it is evident that the country is set to achieve its targets to reach an upper-middle-income status by 2030.
“It is important that the current government see through the implementation of Vision 2030. Zimbabwe is on a development trajectory that must not be disturbed by elections. We have achieved a lot in terms of road rehabilitation and the construction of dams. Our currency has stabilised, and that is why we need to support the Constitutional Amendment Number 3 Bill.”
The CSCJF’s declaration adds to growing voices backing the proposed amendments.
