The Zimbabwe Council of Churches urges government respect for the Constitution amidst pressures for President Mnangagwa’s tenure extension. Divisions within the ruling party highlight tensions over constitutional adherence. The churches emphasize the necessity for transparency and inclusivity in governance, criticizing political elites for using constitutional principles for personal gain at the expense of the majority.
The Zimbabwe Council of Churches has called on the government to respect the rule of law and uphold the Constitution, particularly amidst discussions regarding President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s potential extension of his tenure. Within the ruling Zanu PF party, factions have emerged—one supporting the extension of Mnangagwa’s term and the other advocating for adherence to the constitutional limits, as he is presently serving his second and final term.
Publicly, several government officials have backed the initiative to extend Mnangagwa’s rule until 2030, which has faced considerable criticism from civil society, opposition parties, and churches. The Zimbabwe Council of Churches emphatically stated the necessity for leaders to ensure that governance is transparent, accountable, and inclusive to protect the rights of all Zimbabweans, especially marginalized groups.
The ZCC remarked, “As the church, we advocate for the upholding of the constitution, the rule of law, and good governance. This necessitates a commitment to transparency and accountability in governance.” They further stressed that the current state of the Constitution has become a mechanism for the enrichment of a privileged few, while the overarching majority feels neglected and disenfranchised from the political process.
In summary, the Zimbabwe Council of Churches expresses deep concern over the potential disregard for the Constitution by government leaders advocating for President Mnangagwa’s extended rule. Their appeal underscores the importance of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in governance to safeguard the rights of all Zimbabweans, particularly the marginalized. Failure to uphold these principles has contributed to a growing mistrust in political structures and leaders.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
