By Gift Ostallos Siziba – In moments where silence becomes convenient and conformity is rewarded, defending constitutionalism becomes both a moral and political duty.

We do so because constitutionalism is the foundation upon which any democratic society survives. Once the Constitution ceases to be the supreme law of the land and becomes a tool manipulated for the convenience of those in power, democracy itself is placed in grave danger.

The Constitution of Zimbabwe was born out of the aspirations and sacrifices of the people, not the ambitions of a tiny political elite seeking to extend its hold on power. No government has the moral authority to mutilate the national charter for narrow partisan interests while citizens are trapped in deepening suffering.

It is both painful and tragic that in a country where millions are struggling to survive, the regime’s priority is not jobs, hospitals, schools, or economic recovery, but constitutional manipulation.

Ordinary Zimbabweans are enduring crushing poverty, unemployment, collapsing public healthcare, and a devastating cost of living crisis that has pushed many families into despair.

Half the population faces food insecurity, young people are without opportunities, hospitals lack basic medicines, and public services continue to deteriorate before our eyes.

At a time when citizens are demanding dignity, accountability, and solutions to the economic crisis, the regime has chosen political self-preservation over national renewal. This is not leadership; it is abandonment of the people.

It is for this reason that we have, against the tide and despite intimidation, firmly rejected the proposed constitutional amendment. It does not matter how much power the regime wields or how many voices it seeks to silence.

They may persecute citizens, weaponise institutions, and attempt to suppress dissent, but history has no blank pages. It will record that there were those who stood firmly on the side of constitutionalism, democracy, and the will of the people. At the end, the people shall govern!

NoTo2030