Story by Tamuka Charakupa
COMMUNITIES in Mhondoro-Ngezi have endorsed the Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill, as ZANU PF in Mashonaland West concludes a week-long grassroots sensitisation programme ahead of parliamentary public consultations.
The outreach campaign saw party structures engaging communities across the province, with residents expressing support for the proposed legislation, citing its focus on development, peace and stability.
Ward 6 Councillor for Mhondoro-Ngezi, Mr Obrian Rwafa, announced his defection from the opposition to ZANU PF, attributing the move to his understanding of the Bill and confidence in national leadership.
“As a community leader and an opposition councillor, I have taken time to understand the provisions of this Bill. I am leaving toxic opposition to follow the visionary leadership of President Mnangagwa. The Bill is progressive and meant to safeguard national interests. That is why I have chosen to support it and work with others in my community to ensure its success.”
Residents who attended the engagements said they were satisfied with the information shared.
“We have been conscientised on what this Bill entails, and we are satisfied as community members. It speaks to development, peace and stability, which are key for our livelihoods,” said Letwin Chawira.
Another resident, Biggie Chikowore, highlighted youth participation in the process.
“As youths and community members, we fully support this Bill because it ensures continuity of development programmes. We are ready to participate in the public consultations and make our voices heard,” he said.
Provincial leadership, led by ZANU PF Mashonaland West Chairperson Cde Mary Mliswa-Chikoka, urged communities to actively take part in the upcoming consultations.
“We have concluded our grassroots engagements. As Mash West, we can safely say our communities are now well informed ahead of the public consultations by Parliament. We are happy with the national developmental trajectory being witnessed under the Second Republic. This Bill ensures continuity, stability and national security,” she said.
Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Honourable Vangelis Haritatos, said the proposed legislation would support implementation of development programmes.
“I am humbled by the level of awareness among our members on the Bill. As Members of the National Assembly, this proposed Bill is meant to ensure political stability and give us ample time to implement development projects that benefit our people,” he said.
Meanwhile, members of the public have been urged to observe guidelines during the consultations, including refraining from wearing party regalia, displaying political affiliation or donning security uniforms.
