The Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations has spoken boldly against any plans to change the Constitution to keep President Emmerson Mnangagwa in power beyond 2028. In a clear and principled statement, the Church has called on the President to reject this dangerous idea and instead uphold the Constitution of Zimbabwe. They made it known that extending the presidential term limit would be a betrayal of the law and the people.
According to the Church, there are some Members of Parliament and political activists pushing for the extension of Mnangagwa’s rule. The ZHOCD says this is wrong and would mean the President is assisting in breaking the law. Zimbabwe’s Constitution sets a clear two-term limit for any sitting President, and the Church insists that this must be respected by all, especially by those who took an oath to defend it.
The ZHOCD also reminded the nation that President Mnangagwa has publicly promised to follow the Constitution and to respect his term limit. He has said before that he will not seek to stay in power beyond what the law allows. The Church says this promise must not be forgotten or twisted by political interests. They are urging the President to remain true to his word and to honour the oath he took when he assumed office.
The Church believes the President’s promise to step down is crucial for Zimbabwe’s democratic future. It builds trust among citizens and helps maintain peace and unity in the country. It also honours the sacrifices made during the liberation struggle by ensuring that Zimbabwe is ruled by the will of the people and not the desires of the powerful.
As guardians of moral conscience, the Church says it has a responsibility to promote democracy and the rule of law. They believe Zimbabwe can only grow and solve its problems if it respects its laws and holds credible elections. The Church is calling for free and fair elections in 2028 that will lead to a peaceful transfer of power.
The ZHOCD warns that any attempt to remove presidential term limits would destroy public trust in elections. It could cause unrest at a time when Zimbabwe desperately needs unity and progress. The Church believes that respecting the Constitution and ensuring fair elections is the only path to a stable and successful Zimbabwe.
They are also calling on all Zimbabweans to support the Constitution and to put national interests ahead of political ambition. The Church wants the government to implement electoral reforms that will make elections more transparent and trustworthy. They stress the importance of political parties following the law and playing by the rules.
The Church did not spare Parliament either. They said MPs have a duty to uphold the Constitution and ensure that the President respects the law. The ZHOCD says lawmakers must reject any attempt to extend Mnangagwa’s rule and focus instead on strengthening Zimbabwe’s democracy.
In closing, the ZHOCD quoted Micah 6 verse 8, which calls on people to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. The Church says this is the kind of leadership Zimbabwe needs. Not one that clings to power, but one that uplifts the people through justice, peace, and humility.
The message is loud and clear. Zimbabwe must say no to dictatorship. The Constitution must stand firm. The people must rise in defence of democracy. Mnangagwa must leave office in 2028 as promised. Anything else would be a betrayal of the nation.
About The Author
