Tinotenda Hove – A newly formed opposition group, the New Zimbabwe Democratic Change, has strongly opposed Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3), describing it as a serious threat to democracy and constitutional governance in Zimbabwe.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the movement said the proposed amendments undermine democratic values and weaken key state institutions.

The organisation launched its campaign under the slogan: “No to CAB3! Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 Must Fall.”

According to the statement, the movement believes the proposed legislation threatens the credibility of Zimbabwe’s electoral system and concentrates too much power in the executive.

“CAB3 manipulates electoral processes to favour the ruling party,” the movement said.
The group also argued that the Bill weakens democratic safeguards by reducing the powers of Parliament and independent institutions.
“CAB3 erodes checks and balances by weakening Parliament and independent institutions,” the statement read.

The movement further claimed that the proposed amendment compromises judicial independence and undermines the rule of law.
“Judicial independence must be protected at all costs. Any attempt to interfere with the courts undermines democracy,” said the movement.

The organisation also accused the Bill of restricting political freedoms and limiting democratic participation.

“SILENCES THE OPPOSITION — Restricts political freedoms and democratic participation,” the movement stated.
The group criticised the process surrounding the constitutional changes, arguing that Zimbabweans were not adequately consulted before the proposals were introduced.

“Made without genuine public consultation or consent,” the statement added.

The movement also said CAB3 violates regional and international democratic standards upheld by the Southern African Development Community and the African Union.

“A government that rewrites the constitution for its own benefit is a government that betrays the people,” the movement said.

The statement concluded with a call for democratic reforms and citizen participation.
“Zimbabwe deserves better. Zimbabwe belongs to the people, by the people, for the people,” declared the movement.