Story by Tichaona Kurewa
THE Constitutional Amendment Number 3 Bill is attracting growing support ahead of its presentation in Parliament, with backers arguing the proposed changes will enhance stability and sustain economic progress.
The latest endorsement has come from the Zimbabwe Anti-Presidential Insult (ZAPI) team, which says the Bill has the potential to strengthen confidence in the economy and safeguard long-term national interests.
ZAPI Vice National Chairlady, Cde Margret Mpofu said stability remains central to economic growth and the protection of citizens’ savings.
“Constitutional Amendment Number 3 Bill intends to benefit everyone. The bill ensures stability, and when there is stability, the people’s savings and pensions are protected, and they accumulate value over time, which benefits all and sundry. Imminent changes in government erode trust, which will in turn erode savings, affecting especially pensioners. The term extension will also guarantee the uplifting of people’s standard of life as well as implementation and completion of key infrastructure projects such as Gwayi-Shangani Lake. Hwange town was dormant for a long time, but because of President Mnangagwa, Hwange town is back to life; President needs more time,” she said.
Echoing similar sentiments, ZAPI Matabeleland North Provincial Chairlady, Cde Patience Kashiri said continuity in leadership would ensure the completion of ongoing development projects.
“We are in support of Amendment 3 Bill. The President is doing a lot which deserves the support of all of us. Extending the Presidential term will ensure the smooth completion of such projects, which will in turn benefit all of us. Here in Hwange, Kamativi has been revived again; the town has resurrected after years of inactivity. Masvingo road is now trafficable; all these efforts deserve another chance,” she said.
ZAPI also called for respect towards the Office of the President, warning that negative rhetoric could undermine national stability.
“Zimbabweans should not insult the President. Our role is to support the leadership all the time. Let us look at other countries; they support the President, and that is what Zimbabweans should do as well. Insulting the President can lead to unrest in the country, which we all don’t want,” added Cde Mpofu.
The Bill proposes a number of changes, including extending the electoral cycle from five to seven years and introducing a parliamentary process to elect the President.
Public consultations on the proposed amendments were conducted nationwide earlier this month, providing citizens with an opportunity to contribute to the legislative process ahead of parliamentary debate.
