Harare, (New Ziana)— Debate around the proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill Number 3 (CAB 3) is strictly a domestic process that does not require input from foreign leaders, a senior ZANU-PF official has said.
The remarks come in the wake of speculation on social media following a recent meeting between President Emmerson Mnangagwa and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa at Precabe Farm in Kwekwe. Some claimed the South African leader had raised concerns over Zimbabwe’s constitutional reform plans during the visit.
However, in an interview with New Ziana, ZANU-PF director of information, Farai Marapira dismissed the assertions as unfounded, insisting the constitutional amendment process is a sovereign issue for Zimbabweans alone.
“That is quite an absurd statement from members of the media because there is nowhere where the South African President discussed this Bill,” said Marapira. “This is strictly an internal process for Zimbabweans, which does not concern or affect any external countries or individuals.”
He added that the issue does not fall within the interests of foreign leaders, including President Ramaphosa, emphasizing Zimbabwe’s independence in handling its constitutional affairs.
Marapira also expressed satisfaction with the level of public engagement on the proposed amendment, noting that citizens across the country have actively participated in consultations and largely expressed support for the Bill.
He said the ruling ZANU-PF party has conducted an extensive nationwide outreach campaign, which he described as a response to grassroots demands rather than a top-down initiative.
“We are essentially returning to the people with the instruction and request they gave to the leadership. It has been a very exciting period for us,” he said.
The outreach programme has included inter-district meetings, face-to-face engagements, and the use of digital platforms such as WhatsApp and social media to broaden participation. Marapira said the party is also developing communication materials in all of Zimbabwe’s officially recognised languages to ensure inclusivity.
“We are a national party, and we want to reach every household in Zimbabwe, including those in the diaspora. Every Zimbabwean should understand what we are communicating—whether through phones, television, or radio,” he said.
According to Marapira, the campaign is also tied to broader economic messaging, highlighting infrastructure development and efforts to ensure equitable access to opportunities at community level.
He said the majority of outreach meetings were peaceful and well-attended, with only one isolated incident of violence reported.
“The physical outreaches were amazing. People came out in numbers and spoke in support,” he said.
Marapira added that the party expects further backing through written submissions, including emails and letters, arguing that the Bill reflects the will of the people.
“This is not something imposed on citizens. These are requests that came from the grassroots. We are simply translating those requirements into policy,” he said.
He also dismissed claims that the proposed amendment seeks to extend the presidential term, describing such assertions as misleading.
“That is an absurdity being pushed by those who oppose everything the party does. The Bill is not about extending the presidential term, but rather aligning and extending the election cycle for presidential, parliamentary, and council elections,” he said.
Marapira argued that synchronising electoral cycles would enhance economic stability by allowing for better planning and coordinated development efforts.
“We believe this is an economic measure that allows for better planning and stability. By the time the legislative process concludes, we hope every Zimbabwean will understand the value and intent of this Bill,” he said.
The outreach campaign is expected to continue in the coming weeks as the party seeks to consolidate support across all sectors of society.
New Ziana
