Tinotenda Hove – Freedom Fighters for Change (FFC) leader, Michael Makaza has condemned ZANU PF’s alleged plans to amend the Constitution to extend presidential term limits, warning that such a move would be a “direct attack on democracy and the rule of law.”

In a strongly worded statement titled Standing Firm Against Constitutional Amendments, the movement said on Sunday: “We, the Freedom Fighters for Change (FFC), strongly condemn any attempt by ZANU PF to amend our Constitution and extend presidential term limits by two years. This move undermines Section 91(1) of our Constitution and threatens the very fabric of our democracy.”

The FFC leader emphasized that presidential term limits are crucial for ensuring accountability and preventing authoritarian rule. “Presidential term limits protect against authoritarianism and ensure regular leadership renewal and accountability. Free and fair elections are the cornerstone of democracy, and term limits guarantee citizens’ right to choose their leaders,” he said.

He warned that amending the Constitution in this manner would erode public trust in national institutions. “This amendment will erode trust in our institutions and undermine the rule of law,” he added.

Turning to the economic implications, the FFC leader said any such move would harm investor confidence and worsen the country’s economic woes. “Investors favor stable, predictable democratic environments; this amendment will scare off foreign investment,” he said. “Reduced economic growth and job opportunities will exacerbate poverty and inequality. We must prioritize economic prosperity for citizens, not the interests of a ruling elite.”

The statement also cautioned that Zimbabwe risked isolation from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU) if it pursued undemocratic changes. “SADC and AU promote democratic governance and term limits; this amendment will isolate Zimbabwe regionally and internationally,” he said. “We risk losing regional influence and cooperation, further marginalizing our country.”

Concluding the statement, the FFC leader called on all Zimbabweans to unite in defense of democracy. “Let’s stand together against this amendment and protect our democracy. We must prioritize the interests of citizens over the ambitions of a ruling elite,” he said.

The movement ended its statement with the rallying hashtags: “#WeMove #TogetherWeDeliver #ElectoralReforms #ProtectOurDemocracy.”