Story by Fungai Jachi
COMMUNITIES in Mwenezi East, Masvingo Province, have thrown their support behind the proposed Constitutional Amendment Number 3 Bill, saying the changes could help sustain development programmes in previously marginalised areas.
Villagers say they have witnessed notable improvements in schools, healthcare services and access to clean water under the Second Republic, developments they believe should continue uninterrupted.
Residents argued that extending the tenure of public office bearers would provide continuity for ongoing projects and reduce expenditure linked to frequent elections.
“All the changes we are seeing in our community are because we have capable leaders, and these leaders deserve more time to continue initiating such developments. CAB3 is meant to benefit the people, so there is no need to waste resources on elections when those funds can instead be channelled towards development projects,” said one villager.
Another resident said communities were already benefiting from Government programmes.
“A lot has changed in our communities. We now have water, schools and clinics, all of which we have seen under the Second Republic. The developments are visible, tangible and appreciated. Our support for CAB3 is anchored on the progress we are witnessing,” the resident said.
Mwenezi East legislator, Honourable Sheila Chikomo, said Government remains focused on accelerating development in rural communities.
“Working together remains critical in uplifting our communities. Development in areas such as Chagomoka has been progressing slowly, so the focus now is to accelerate development to ensure no one is left behind. No child should walk long distances to school, and no one should struggle to access healthcare services. We will continue working together to build our communities,” she said.
The Constitutional Amendment Number 3 Bill is expected to be debated in Parliament once formally tabled.
Among its proposals are extending Presidential and Parliamentary terms from five to seven years and introducing a Parliamentary process for the election of the President.
