Zanu-PF has announced plans to expel party members who oppose the controversial Constitutional Amendment (No. 3) Bill, engaging traditional leaders to help secure backing for the proposed reforms. The Bill has faced strong criticism from civil society, opposition parties, and even some ruling party members, who argue that such major constitutional changes should be decided through a national referendum. Despite these objections, Zanu-PF is mobilising its party structures nationwide ahead of Parliament-led consultations scheduled for next week.
Key Provisions and Controversy
Amendment Bill No. 3 proposes shifting the presidential election from a direct popular vote to a vote in Parliament, where Zanu-PF holds a two-thirds majority. It also seeks to extend presidential and parliamentary terms by two years, moving the next general election from 2028 to 2030, without holding a referendum. Critics contend that the Bill could entrench Zanu-PF’s hold on power and limit citizen participation in constitutional decisions.
Parliament has outlined 64 public hearings between March 30 and April 2, averaging fewer than seven hearings per province over four days. By comparison, the 2013 Constitution involved more than 4,800 public meetings across 1,950 wards over 105 days. Other proposed changes include abolishing the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, prompting concerns that the process may sidestep meaningful public consultation.
Enforcement and Outreach
In Manicaland, provincial party leaders told a coordination committee meeting at Marymount Teachers’ College in Mutare that members opposing the Bill would face expulsion. Provincial political commissar Albert Nyakuedzwa warned that non-supporting members would be removed from the party. Outreach activities, including inter-district meetings, are set to begin immediately.
Party provincial chairperson Tawanda Mukodza emphasised the involvement of traditional leaders to influence rural communities. “Traditional leaders will assist in ensuring villagers support Bill No. 3. This is a critical issue for our political future,” Mukodza said. He also called on MPs and central committee members to fully participate, warning that refusal to provide support or resources would lead to further action. Attendance at all levels, from local cells to provincial meetings, is being treated as compulsory.
Broader Context
The government’s push to secure backing for the Bill has coincided with heightened tension over opposition to the amendments, including the assault of prominent lawyer Professor Lovemore Madhuku in Harare. Analysts say the reliance on traditional leaders to influence public opinion highlights the government’s use of cultural authority as a political tool—a strategy that remains controversial given Zimbabwe’s fragile democratic environment.
