The Crisis in Zimbabwe has described the move by the ZANU PF to extend President Mnangagwa’s tenure as tantamount to undermining the spirit and collective will of the Zimbabwean populace.
The oraganisation convened an extensive consultative meeting drawing a diverse array of stakeholders.
The meeting was prompted by recent proposals and ongoing efforts by the ruling party working in cahoots with some opposition elements to extend Mnangagwa’s tenure beyond the constitutional limit of two five-year terms.
The meeting drew participants from a wide section of society, including labour, the church, the informal sector, business, parliamentarians, war veterans, political parties, students, women, and youth organisations.
“The primary objective of the meeting was to devise a comprehensive, collective strategy aimed at resisting the erosion of constitutional norms.
“It was also aimed at protecting democratic governance against the backdrop of proposed amendments that threaten to entrench authoritarian rule.”
The participants reached a clear and unanimous consensus regarding the proposed constitutional amendments aimed at removing presidential term limits.
“The participants firmly argued that such changes would significantly undermine the spirit and collective will of the Zimbabwean populace.
“The meeting explicitly rejected these amendments, characterising them as self-serving maneuvers orchestrated by a small clique of politicians pursuing personal ambitions over the broader interests of the nation.
“This clique’s pursuit of power, they noted, undermines the very foundation of Zimbabwe’s democracy,” added the organisation.
According to the organisation, the meeting underscored that these proposed amendments, fundamentally contradict the democratic principles enunciated in the country’s constitution.
“The meeting expressed concern that enacting such changes would exacerbate the lingering legitimacy crisis leading to increased international isolation and a further decline in the country’s global standing.
“In addition, the meeting reflected on how these ongoing attempts to alter the constitution demonstrate a profound disregard of the will of Zimbabweans as expressed in 2013 when they unanimously voted for the supreme law.
“The meeting further noted that the relentless efforts to amend the constitution will continue to limit the democratic space in Zimbabwe.
“The shrinking environment poses a serious risk of consolidating authoritarian practices and eroding the fundamental rights and freedoms of the citizens.
“The meeting called for constant vigilance and resistance against such developments.”
In addition, the meeting highlighted the ongoing economic crisis in Zimbabwe, which has severely impacted the daily lives of ordinary citizens.
“As inflation spirals and basic necessities become increasingly scarce, many families struggle to meet their fundamental needs.
“The meeting noted with concern that political elites and a small group of individuals with close ties to the government are exploiting the nation’s resources for their own gain.
“This systematic looting occurs with little regard for the welfare of the populace, exacerbating the country’s economic plight and contributing to widespread hardship among the general population.”
GOING FORWARD
- The meeting tasked the Crisis Coalition to build an inclusive broad-based movement, from all sectors of society to defend the democratic space and resist this proposed constitutional amendment.
- This comprehensive approach seeks to unite various stakeholders, including the media, diplomats, community mobilizers, and rapid response teams to ensure ordinary Zimbabweans are empowered to engage in this righteous and noble cause.
The emphasis was placed on the urgency of mobilising citizens across the country to defend democratic ideals and resist any proposed amendments to the Constitution.
- The meeting acknowledged the critical need for robust national mobilization efforts that prioritise community consultation aimed at safeguarding the constitution and nurturing a culture of constitutionalism.
- This mobilization efforts must extend across all political affiliations and should commence without delay.
- In a proactive step, the meeting resolved to organise and convene an inclusive national all-stakeholders convention that incorporates all stakeholders to prepare for a united response, specifically, a collective VOTE NO campaign should a referendum be called regarding any constitutional changes.
- Moreover, the meeting recognised the importance of employing every constitutionally permissible channel to resist attempts to abolish term limits and prolong President Mnangagwa’s tenure in office.
This includes utilising mass mobilization initiatives, organising demonstrations, engaging in diplomatic discussion, as well as pursuing public interest litigation to challenge and stop the encroachments on democracy.
