War veterans back Amendment bill number 3

They say the bill will bury contested elections because choosing a President will be a preserve for Members of Parliament.

In a letter dated 19 March 2026, ordinary war veterans represented by Joshua Mutizamhepo, have put their weight behind MPs selecting the president and not every Zimbabwean.

“Zimbabwe’s past elections have too often been marred by violence, contestation, and the refusal by losing candidates to accept outcomes. The bill removes the conditions for such disputes by providing for the election of the President throufh Parliament. It ensures stability. It ensures unity. It ensures that governance continues without interuption. The people deserve certainity. The people deserve peace,” read the letter.

Clause 3 of the Amendment Bill reads “This amendment establishes a parliamentary method for selecting the President. It specifies that a candidate must secure a majority of votes, and if no one achieves an absolute majority, a run-off election will be held. The process is overseen by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission to ensure it is conducted properly. These measures strengthen constitutional accountability by promoting fairness, openness and judicial oversight in the election. The procedure for the election shall be in accordance with Standing Rules and Orders of Parliament”

In 2018, MDC Alliance led by Nelson Chamisa, took the electoral Commission to court over the presidential results.

Chamisa argued that ZEC’s adjustment from giving Zanu PF 50.8% of the votes then admitting there was a glitch in counting that gave Zanu PF 0.02 % more votes means there was tampering with results.

In 2008, there was a period of uncertainity and fear after the presidential elections. Violence followed the 27 June 2008 rerun which gave Zanu PF a landslide victory.

The war veterans argue that they know the price of division, the cost of instability and the value of a nation governed in unity and purpose.

Amendment Bill Number 3 of the 2013 constitution seeks among other things to extend the term of office for elected officials from five to seven years, it also seeks to increase number of senators from 60 to 80.

The bill has been heavily criticised by members of opposition and legal minds as an abbrogation of the constitution that can only be cured by a referendum.

Parliament has scheduled public hearings accross the country over 4 days to get the views of the citizens.

In the meantime citizens will submit their views on email [email protected] or hand deliver to the new Parliament building in Mt Hampden