Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops Oppose Constitutional Amendment Bill, Urge MPs to Reject It

Catholic Bishops' Conference meeting in Zimbabwe

The Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference (ZCBC) has strongly criticised the proposed Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Bill, 2026, warning that it could weaken democratic governance and erode citizens’ power.

In a pastoral letter issued on March 19, Roman Catholic bishops urged members of the Parliament of Zimbabwe to reject the bill on grounds of conscience.

In the letter, signed by all seven bishops, the church leaders emphasised the importance of the Constitution of Zimbabwe as a foundational national covenant.

“Our Constitution is more than law; it is a solemn covenant, born from the overwhelming will of Zimbabweans in 2013,” the bishops said.

They warned that proposals in the Constitution Amendment Bill, Zimbabwe 2026, could strip citizens of direct influence over executive authority.

The bishops raised alarm over provisions that would remove direct presidential elections, arguing that this would effectively transfer power away from voters. They also criticised plans to extend presidential and parliamentary terms from five to seven years without a fresh electoral mandate, saying this “undermines democratic legitimacy.” Additionally, the church leaders pointed to Section 328(7) of the Constitution, which requires a referendum for changes that allow incumbents to benefit from term extensions.

Ignoring this provision, they said, creates “a glaring contradiction” that threatens Zimbabwe’s constitutional democracy.

The ZCBC warned that the proposed changes could compromise the independence of critical institutions, including the judiciary, prosecution services, and electoral bodies. They expressed concern over increased presidential influence in appointing judges and the Prosecutor General, as well as proposed shifts in electoral responsibilities away from the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission. The bishops also cautioned against provisions that could allow traditional leaders to act in a politically partisan manner.

In a strongly worded appeal, the bishops urged MPs and senators to prioritise national interest over political pressure.

“You bear a sacred duty before God and the nation: to govern for the common good, not personal or partisan gain,” the letter read. “Pressures—be they bribes, threats, or promises may tempt you… Chokwadi chinokunda/ iqiniso liyanqoba truth prevails.”

They called on lawmakers to reject any constitutional changes that undermine the voice of citizens.

The bishops stressed that any major constitutional reforms should be subjected to public scrutiny and approval.

“If these amendments genuinely serve the nation’s welfare, let the people affirm them,” the letter said.

They emphasised the need for transparency, broad consultation and, where necessary, a referendum to ensure that the Constitution remains a document owned by all Zimbabweans.

Zimbabwe Constitution Amendment Bill