Activists urge greater citizen participation in Constitutional Amendment process
By Nobukhosi Ndlovu
Human rights activists have cautioned that constitutional amendments in Zimbabwe, if not fully understood by the public, could undermine citizens’ ability to hold those in power accountable.
As debates around the Zimbabwe Constitutional Amendment no. 3 gazetted on the 16th of February 2026 continue to dominate public discourses, activists are urging Zimbabweans to actively engage in the process in whatever ways they can to safeguard democratic principles and ensure their voices are heard.
Speaking during an online WhatsApp discussion hosted by Community Podium yesterday, Kushinga Madzima, a law student and human rights defender under Amnesty International and the current SAYWHAT National Coordinating Chairperson explained that the key aspect of constitutionalism is that government operations are dictated by how they comply with the nation’s constitution.
“The constitution in itself is the deciding factor for all government operations and everything that happens in the nation,” she noted.
Madzima highlighted that the constitution was made for the people, therefore, everyone is entitled to voice out their opinions concerning it, if it does not serve the interests of citizens at large. Speaking specifically to the debate around the constitutional amendment no.3, she highlighted that;
“Some individuals conflict with its amendments because it yields intensive power, so whatever amendments made should be in the best interest of people.”
Lucy Chivasa, a human rights lawyer and journalist also shared her opinion pertaining the implications of the proposed constitutional amendments on citizens, particularly in relation to the three arms of the government.
Chivasa explained that a country has three arms that govern a nation, namely; the executive, parliament and the judiciary. She noted that these arms perform each of their function differently therefore to amend constitutions, there is always a danger of having consolidated power in one arm of the government which might weaken other sections.
“The current proposals to the amendment bill no. 3 has a potential of affecting human rights in particular freedoms and civil liberties like the freedom of expression and association, access to information and the rights to vote,” she said.
The speakers stressed the need to raise awareness within the public concerning the proposed amendments to promote peaceful advocacy.
Chivasa highlighted that citizens must be informed about what the proposed changes mean and how they may affect their rights and their day to day way of life. She pointed out the importance of human rights education in helping citizens understand.
“Citizens need to learn about these changes, support those who speak out, ask questions, and be present in all discussions. They can also attend public hearings and vote in referendums,” she said said.
Chivasa further called on elected leaders to engage openly with citizens and uphold democratic principles through transparency, accountability and respect for human rights.
Participants then sought clarity on what needs to be in place for a parliamentary voting system to work in Zimbabwe and whether the lack of changes to councillors’ terms affects the timing of elections.
Chivasa then responded by noting the practical challenges of governance in Zimbabwe. “Often, laws are enacted first and implemented later,” she said, highlighting gaps such as the lack of clear regulations for relevant institutions.
The discussion underscored that safeguarding constitutional rights depends on an informed and engaged citizenry. Participants emphasized that meaningful public participation is not optional, but essential to ensuring that any proposed amendments strengthen than erode democratic principles and fundamental rights.
