Story by ZBC Reporters
SUPPORT for the Constitutional Amendment Number 3 Bill is gathering momentum, with traditional leaders across Zimbabwe endorsing the proposed changes ahead of nationwide public consultations set to begin on Monday.
Chiefs from Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South provinces reached a unanimous position during an engagement meeting in Bulawayo, backing the Bill as a pathway to stability and sustained development.
President of the National Chiefs Council, Chief Mtshane Khumalo, said chiefs from the two provinces fully support the proposed amendments.
In Mashonaland West, chiefs led by Chief Ngezi also endorsed the Bill, citing the need for leadership stability to ensure continuity of development programmes.
“That is why we support measures that promote stability and continuity in leadership. The Bill allows us to actively contribute to governance issues while continuing to uphold peace, unity and cultural values in our communities,” Chief Ngezi said.
The traditional leaders noted that frequent political contestation disrupts progress at community level, while citizens continue to demand tangible improvements in livelihoods.
ZANU PF Mashonaland West Provincial Chairperson, Honourable Mary Mliswa-Chikoka, urged chiefs to mobilise grassroots participation in the upcoming consultations.
“Your voice and influence are key in ensuring that people appreciate the importance of stability, unity and continuity, which are essential for the country to achieve its developmental aspirations.”
Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Marian Chombo said government values the role of chiefs as a critical link between policymakers and communities.
“Chiefs are the link between Government and communities, and your involvement ensures that policies and development programmes are effectively implemented on the ground. The Constitutional Amendment Number 3 Bill will help create an environment where national projects are not only initiated, but completed,” she said.
In the Midlands Province, traditional leaders also endorsed the Bill during an interface in Gweru.
Midlands Provincial Chiefs’ Council Chairperson, Chief Ngungumbane said the amendments address challenges affecting development, including what he described as a “perpetual election mode”.
The endorsement was seconded by Chief Ntabeni without objection.
Addressing the same gathering, Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Owen Ncube said the Bill seeks to extend the terms of the President, Parliament and local authorities, while enhancing the role of traditional leaders in governance.
“Be very vigilant of enemies of progress who are bent on undermining the country’s progress through taking aim at the bill,” he said.
Meanwhile, ZANU PF affiliates also declared their support during a press conference in Gweru. Spokesperson for the National Multi Faith Economic Dialogue, Reverend Simbarashe Randazha said the Bill reflects the aspirations of the party’s resolutions.
“We have come together as affiliates of the revolutionary party to express our support towards the bill… We are tired of people seeking the indulgence of the courts every time there are elections thereby hindering development. We want to see our country developing,” he said.
Public consultations on the Bill are scheduled to begin on March 30 across Zimbabwe, giving citizens an opportunity to present their views before it is tabled in the National Assembly.
