Innocent Sibonginkosi Ncube |Zim GBC News
Zimbabwe’s church leaders have issued a powerful pastoral appeal to His Excellency President Emmerson D. Mnangagwa, urging him not to be swayed by those pushing for the controversial Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Bill, 2026, and to instead cement his legacy by presiding over a smooth leadership transition in 2028.
In a statement released on Friday, the Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations (ZHOCD) acknowledged the developmental gains recorded under the President’s leadership but warned that amending the people-driven 2013 Constitution for “selfish ends” would undermine those achievements.
Speaking to conscience rather than partisanship, the church leaders framed their intervention around the biblical call to justice found in Micah 6:8:
“To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
The ZHOCD expressed deep concern that the proposed amendments fundamentally alter the character of the 2013 Constitution, which was shaped by widespread citizen participation, including church-led advocacy through the 2006 Zimbabwe We Want vision process.
Drawing from the timeless wisdom of Micah 6:8, the church leaders said,
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. This verse reminds us of our sacred duty to uphold justice, fairness, and integrity in all aspects of governance.”
In a direct and poignant appeal to the President, the ZHOCD statement read:
“Do not be swayed by those persuading you with these deeply concerning constitutional amendments fundamentally changing our people driven 2013 Constitution. Lead as a constitutionalist. Consolidate your legacy by providing exemplary leadership, conducting elections in 2028 and allow the country to witness the first truly smooth leadership transition.”
The church leaders emphasized that such a path would honor the President’s oath of office and the hopes of the nation, while preserving the positive gains of his tenure—including economic stabilization, infrastructure development, and international re-engagement.
“We make this fervent call to resist any temptation to amend the Constitution for selfish ends, instead align with the national development agenda (NDS2) and Vision 2030 by entrenching constitutionalism and constitutional democracy in the country,” the ZHOCD stated.
While acknowledging genuine strides made under President Mnangagwa’s leadership, including efforts toward economic stabilization, significant infrastructural and agricultural projects, and improved international standing, the church leaders also highlighted the deep and painful challenges still facing the nation.
They pointed to the failure to fully benefit from God-given mineral wealth, entrenched corruption in many institutions, the collapse or underperformance of public social services—health, education, and essential infrastructure—and increasing poverty and inequality that have left many households in despair.
“These realities call us to sober reflection, repentance, and renewed commitment to justice, stewardship, and accountability as envisioned in our national values and in God’s Word,” the ZHOCD said.
The church leaders reaffirmed the historic role of the Church in shaping Zimbabwe’s constitutional order, recalling how prior to the 2013 process, churches spearheaded advocacy for a people-driven charter through the 2006 Zimbabwe We Want national vision document.
They noted that their efforts mobilised congregations nationwide to participate in COPAC outreach and stakeholder forums, ensuring community voices informed the final draft.
As part of their ongoing commitment, the ZHOCD announced they have launched a National Dialogue and Engagement Document towards the Zimbabwe We Want, which they believe can guide the nation toward a comprehensive National Dialogue Process to resolve the challenges facing the country.
The ZHOCD pledged to continue engaging the President and all stakeholders in a spirit of dialogue and national healing, committing to strategic, non-partisan engagement across churches, civil society, traditional leaders, business, youth, and all citizens.
“We will support the attainment of development priorities in NDS2 and Vision 2030, recognizing that sustainable development rests on the rule of law, accountable institutions, and citizen participation, not entirely on a single leader,” the statement concluded.
Quoting the prophet Amos, the church leaders declared:
“But let justice run down as waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream.”
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