By Revesai Mavetera
Zimbabwe is abuzz with concern and criticism as the plan by Mr. Mnangagwa and ZANU PF to amend the constitution, potentially eliminating or delaying the 2028 elections becomes clearer. This move, seen by many as a way to consolidate power, has been met with pervasive disapproval and rejection among citizens and experts alike.
The Zimbabwean people, who fought tirelessly for their freedom, desire a leader who listens to their voices and governs in their best interest. Instead, accusations of self-serving leadership and disregard for democratic principles have been leveled against Mnangagwa’s administration.
Change Radio sought insights from Dr. Mafa Sibanda, Executive Director of the Research Institute of Zimbabwe, who extensively explained the implications of these constitutional changes.
“It is ironic that a president like Mnangagwa calls himself a constitutional man, yet his party and cohorts are moving frantically to amend the constitution,” Dr. Sibanda said in his opening remarks. He went on to describe this behavior as “flip-flopping leadership” and condemned it as “hypocrisy of the highest order.”
Dr. Sibanda further brought attention to the dangers of such amendments, describing them as hallmarks of authoritarianism. “If you see an incumbent president amending a constitution to his advantage, it means he is not a people’s president but a dictator,” he asserted. The trend of African leaders clinging to power at any cost remains a threat to peace and security across the continent.
Zimbabwe’s constitution which was adopted with overwhelming support of more than 99% of the vote in 2013 represents the will of the people and embodies principles of peace and stability. Dr. Sibanda warned that tampering with such a constitution for political gain risks plunging the nation into chaos. “So we are admonishing ZANU PF and its surrogates to desist from tearing up the constitution,” he said, stressing the need to maintain peace and respect the people’s voice while avoiding provocation.
Dr. Sibanda also addressed the personal aspect of Mnangagwa’s rule, suggesting that age and past allegiances might play a role in the president’s persistence. “At 83 or 85, one needs to rest. Life has limitations, cognitively, physically and spiritually. So we thought Mnangagwa ED, could also see the light,” he said, referencing the downfall of former president Robert Mugabe, whose inner circle exploited his leadership for their gain.
The Executive Director of RIZ concluded with a stern caution that “anything that is unconstitutional will also lead to unconstitutional activities. Amending the constitution just because you have the majority in parliament can be legal, but it lacks merit and becomes subjective.” He expressed concern that leaders who gain power through undemocratic means often struggle to achieve legitimacy, leading to constitutional and leadership crises.
Reflecting on the 2017 coup d’état and the alleged rigging of past elections, Dr. Sibanda suggested that some individuals may fear losing power because they risk being held accountable for crimes committed during their tenure. This alone makes enough argument for the people of Zimbabwe to standup and stop any possible manipulation of the constitution.
Mafa, as a community leader and former MP and Senator, has appealed to Mr. Mnangagwa, in his capacity as the leader of ZANU PF, to take charge and be responsible for his party’s actions. He stated that amending the constitution and extending his term in office will not only face opposition from the general citizens who align with opposition movements but also from members within ZANU PF. “It is my appeal to the leader to consider the possible response to these actions, as this may cause serious instability due to internal conflicts within ZANU PF,” he said.
On Monday 20 January, a groups of youth in various locations staged warm-up protests to express their opposition to the proposed postponement of elections. This followed statements and petitions from several organizations denouncing the move.
The people of Zimbabwe have made it clear, they long for leadership that prioritizes the nation’s interests over personal or partisan gain. Whether their voices will be respected remains uncertain. The pressing question now is whether Zimbabweans are ready to stand up, as their neighbors in Mozambique have, to demand their rights and
protect their democracy?
