Zimbabwe Opposition Groups Continue Protests Against Proposed Constitutional Changes. Harare, Zimbabwe — A coalition of opposition groups in Zimbabwe is persisting in their opposition against a proposed constitutional amendment that seeks to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term. Despite facing violence and intimidation, the activists are determined to fight the changes.
In early March, law professor Lovemore Madhuku, leader of the National Constitutional Assembly, was attacked during a meeting of his opposition party, which he attributed to police — backed security agents. Madhuku, however, remained steadfast in his commitment to challenging the proposed amendment. “We will not be the first ones to be overpowered by a superior force of the state which is because they have the monopoly of state power,” Madhuku stated. “.
If we are shot, we will die. If we are beaten up. We may be hospitalised or even crippled.
But we are not going to care.”Human Rights Watch has warned that authorities are resorting to violence and intimidation against opponents of the proposed amendment. Jameson Timba, a prominent opposition lawmaker, revealed that he and a colleague had been under surveillance since voicing their opposition to the amendment. “.
We are not scared, “Timba. “
The constitution gives ordinary Zimbabweans the right to protest.
The right to petition peacefully against those things we disagree with.
And that option is open to us, and we will exercise it at the appropriate time.”
The proposed amendment would extend the presidential term from five to seven years and replace direct presidential elections with a vote by lawmakers. If passed, it would allow Mnangagwa to remain in office past his constitutionally limited two terms ending in 2028.
Critics argue that the amendment would further entrench the grip on power of the ruling Zanu — PF party, which has governed the resource-rich country since independence in 1980.
Political analyst Blessing Vava accused those pushing for the amendments of caring more about their economic benefits than the country’s future and the respect of the constitution.
The Defend the Constitution Platform, which is leading the opposition against the amendment, insists it will not back down. “.
Since the bill has been introduced, there has been a systematic shutting down of those whose voices oppose it, “Vava.
The proposed amendment is expected to pass in parliament, which is dominated by Mnangagwa’s party.
A spokesperson for the ruling ZANU — PF party maintains that the president is well loved and that the opposition is spreading fake news.
Further details are expected as the situation develops.
