SYDNEY MUBAIWA
MASVINGO- Opposition United Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA) has launched an attack on the proposed Constitutional of Zimbabwe Amendment (No 3) Bill, warning that it poses a clear danger to democracy and could fundamentally alter the country’s system of governance.
The Bill, which was approved by Cabinet last week seeks to extend presidential terms from five to seven years and to abolish the direct election of the president by citizens transferring that power to legislators.
In a statement released on Monday February16, 2026, the opposition party said the proposals amounted to a calculated effort to dismantle the 2013 constitution.
“UZA holds a clear and principled position. The Constitution exists to protect citizens, limit the concentration of power, and preserve institutional balance. While the Constitution provides mechanisms for amendment, proposals that alter presidential term limits or remove the direct election of the President raise serious constitutional and democratic concerns.
“The 2013 Constitution was adopted following extensive national consultation and was intended to strengthen safeguards against the excessive concentration of executive authority. Amendments that affect presidential tenure or the method by which the President is elected must be approached with caution, broad consultation, and full respect for both the letter and spirit of the Constitution,” reads part of the statement.
UZA says the government should be prioritising economic recovery, not constitutional changes.
“UZA believes that sovereign authority ultimately rests with the people of Zimbabwe. The direct election of the President is not a procedural detail. It is a central expression of citizen mandate and accountability within our constitutional framework.
“Zimbabwe faces pressing economic and social challenges. The priority of national leadership should remain focused on restoring economic stability, strengthening public services, and rebuilding trust in institutions. Constitutional reform should strengthen national confidence, not weaken it,” further reads the statement.
The party also raised concerns that centralising power in the presidency could weaken accountability and encourage the misuse of state security institutions.
“UZA will continue to advocate for constitutionalism, accountability, and a system of governance grounded in the rule of law. There is no ambiguity in our position. The integrity of the Constitution must be preserved,” further reads the statement.
