By Prosper Taruvinga Tiringindi, Human Rights Defender

The ongoing debate surrounding Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB 3) has exposed serious concerns about the future of democracy, constitutionalism, human rights, and inclusive governance in Zimbabwe. As a human rights defender and community advocate, I strongly oppose CAB 3 because it appears to serve the interests of a few political elites rather than the broader interests of ordinary citizens.

One of the most troubling aspects of CAB 3 is its potential to weaken independent constitutional institutions that were established to protect citizens’ rights and ensure accountability. The proposed changes threaten the effectiveness and independence of commissions such as the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, an institution that plays a critical role in advancing gender equality, promoting women’s rights, and addressing discrimination against women and girls.

Weakening constitutional commissions would have devastating consequences for women, who already face significant barriers in accessing justice, political representation, land ownership, and economic opportunities. The Gender Commission has been instrumental in advocating for equal participation of women in governance, combating gender-based violence, and monitoring compliance with constitutional provisions on gender equality. Any attempt to undermine such institutions constitutes an attack on the rights and dignity of women across Zimbabwe.

CAB 3 also poses significant risks to Indigenous and marginalized communities. Zimbabwe’s Indigenous peoples, including rural communities, traditional communities, and minority ethnic groups, rely on constitutional protections and independent institutions to ensure that their rights are respected. These communities often face exclusion from decision-making processes that affect their land, natural resources, cultural heritage, and livelihoods.

When constitutional safeguards are weakened, Indigenous communities become more vulnerable to displacement, land dispossession, environmental degradation, and exclusion from development planning. Independent commissions play an important role in promoting participation, equality, and accountability, particularly for communities whose voices are frequently ignored in national political processes. Any constitutional amendment that concentrates power and weakens oversight mechanisms risks further marginalizing Indigenous peoples and reducing their ability to influence decisions affecting their lives and future generations.

CAB 3 also raises serious concerns about democratic accountability. The proposal to extend the tenure of elected officials without returning to the electorate undermines the fundamental democratic principle that political power belongs to the people. Democracy requires leaders to regularly seek a fresh mandate from citizens through free and fair elections.

In this regard, I commend Advocate Martin Mureri, Member of Parliament for Masvingo Urban, for courageously rejecting CAB 3. His position reflects the democratic values that citizens expect from their representatives. By stating that Members of Parliament should not extend their term without consulting the people, he demonstrated respect for constitutionalism and the principle that elected leaders remain accountable to the electorate.

Advocate Mureri correctly noted that citizens are the employers of public officials and therefore deserve the opportunity to determine whether those officials should continue serving. His rejection of the argument that unfinished projects justify extending political terms is particularly important. Development projects belong to the government and the people, not individual politicians. Public institutions should continue delivering services regardless of who occupies political office.

His position also resonates with the views of many residents of Masvingo Urban and Zimbabweans generally, who believe that citizens should directly elect their President and freely choose their leaders through regular elections. Attempts to manipulate constitutional provisions for political convenience undermine public trust and weaken democratic governance.

The Constitution of Zimbabwe was born out of extensive public consultations and reflects the aspirations of citizens for accountable governance, separation of powers, protection of fundamental rights, and equal participation in public affairs. Constitutional amendments should strengthen democracy, expand civic participation, and protect vulnerable groups. They should never be used to consolidate power in the hands of a few individuals.

Zimbabwe needs stronger democratic institutions, greater accountability, and increased protection for women, Indigenous communities, and other vulnerable groups. CAB 3 moves the country in the opposite direction. It risks concentrating power, weakening constitutional safeguards, reducing oversight, and diminishing citizens’ ability to hold leaders accountable.

As citizens, civil society organizations, community leaders, women’s rights advocates, Indigenous rights defenders, and human rights defenders, we must continue defending constitutionalism and democratic principles. The Constitution belongs to the people of Zimbabwe, not political elites. Any amendments must reflect the will of the people and protect the rights, freedoms, and aspirations of current and future generations.

The rejection of CAB 3 by leaders such as Advocate Martin Mureri demonstrates that there are still public representatives willing to stand with citizens and defend democratic values. Such leadership deserves recognition and support as Zimbabwe continues its journey toward accountable governance, gender equality, Indigenous rights, social justice, and respect for human rights.