By Maxwell Mapungwana
Harare, (New Ziana) – The country’s indigenous churches have called for national unity, peace, and prayer as Parliament starts deliberations on Constitution Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3), describing the process as a significant moment in the nation’s democratic journey.
In a statement, church leaders said they had dedicated several days to prayer for the nation and the ongoing parliamentary debate, seeking God’s guidance, wisdom, and peace for legislators and citizens alike.
“As Indigenous Churches of Zimbabwe, we have taken days in prayer over the nation and the ongoing Parliamentary debate on Constitution Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3). We are continuing to pray for God’s guidance, wisdom, and peace over this process.
We are praying that God gives Members of Parliament strength, wisdom, and unity so they can carry out their duties well and complete their work in time according to His will. We are also praying for peace in Parliament and peace across the whole nation of Zimbabwe,” they said.
The church leaders emphasized that the constitutional amendment process is not merely a political exercise, but a national undertaking that requires calmness, honesty, and collective reflection – a national moment that needs calm hearts, honesty, and prayer.
Quoting the Biblical passage James 1:5, which encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, the churches said they were praying for all leaders involved in the process to make fair and informed decisions that serve the interests of the nation.
“We speak at a time when our nation is focused on this important process in Parliament. We are praying that God guides every step as MPs debate CAB3, a matter that affects the future and governance of our country.
As churches rooted in communities across Zimbabwe, we are praying for the well-being of our people, the unity of our nation, and respect for our Constitution. The Bible says, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9). We are praying for peace in every community and every part of Zimbabwe,” said the statement.
The churches expressed support for the constitutional amendment process being conducted through Parliament, describing it as part of Zimbabwe’s democratic system.
They urged MPs from all political parties to perform their duties with courage, unity, and clear minds while remaining attentive to the views of the people they represent, adding that the Constitution belongs to the people, and any changes must support good leadership, better service delivery, and national stability,” the churches said.
According to the statement, CAB3 should contribute to strengthening governance systems and promoting national development.
Among other things, CAB3 seeks to lengthen the electoral cycle from five years to seven.
The churches also appealed for respectful engagement throughout the debate, noting that differing opinions are natural in democratic processes.
“We know that such debates can bring different views, but we are praying for peace, calm, and respect in the nation. The Bible says: “Let all things be done decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40). We are praying that order and respect guide all discussions in Parliament. As Indigenous Churches, we remain committed to prayer at this time.
We are praying for every Member of Parliament, asking God to give them wisdom, strength, and focus so they do not lose direction. We are praying for God’s protection over them during this period of debate. Above all, we are praying that truth, peace, and unity guide every step they take,” said the statement.
They further called on Zimbabweans to remain peaceful and united during the process, saying national cohesion was essential for the country’s progress.
The statement comes ahead of a major church gathering in Chegutu this weekend, where the patron of the Zimbabwe Indigenous Interdenominational Council of Churches (ZIICC) is expected to address thousands of believers from across the country.
The churches said they believe leaders are entrusted with responsibility to serve the people and expressed hope that the ongoing constitutional process would contribute to stronger governance structures, stability, and development for Zimbabwe.
“We are praying for peace across Zimbabwe as this important process goes forward, beginning this weekend in Chegutu where the ZIICC Patron will address thousands of believers from across the nation. The Bible says: “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity” (Psalm 133:1).
We believe leaders are placed in positions of responsibility to serve the people, and we are praying that God helps them build strong systems that support development and order in the nation,” said the statement.
New Ziana
