Map showing the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, escalating tensions already disrupting international shipping, Red Sea routes HARARE, ZIMBABWE  – Global trade routes are facing a new threat after Yemen’s Houthi movement warned it could block the strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait, escalating tensions already disrupting international shipping. The development comes as the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively constrained following military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran, sending shockwaves through global energy markets. Reports indicate that the Houthis, who control large parts of Yemen, including the capital, Sanaa, and sections of the Red Sea coastline, are considering closing the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical maritime corridor linking Europe, Asia, and Africa. The waterway connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and serves as a key transit route between the Mediterranean Sea, the Indian Ocean, and Atlantic trade systems. A representative of the group said any blockade would target vessels linked to countries involved in military operations in Iran and its regional allies. Energy analysts warn that simultaneous disruptions at both the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb could significantly impact global oil and gas supplies. The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is a vital passage for shipments moving between Europe and Asia, particularly oil exports from the Middle East heading westward. Any closure would force vessels to reroute around the southern tip of Africa, adding time and cost to global shipping. “Blocking Bab el-Mandeb would effectively choke one of the world’s most important trade arteries,” said a maritime security expert. “Combined with instability in Hormuz, the impact on energy prices and supply chains could be severe.” The threat underscores the widening scope of the Middle East conflict , with regional actors increasingly drawn into the crisis. The Houthis, who have previously targeted commercial vessels in the Red Sea, are seen as key allies of Iran, raising fears of a broader disruption to international maritime security. Shipping companies are already reassessing routes and security protocols, while insurers are expected to raise premiums for vessels operating in high-risk zones. Economists say prolonged disruption at key maritime chokepoints could fuel inflation worldwide, particularly in import-dependent regions such as Africa. Higher shipping costs, delayed cargo, and rising fuel prices are likely to ripple through supply chains, affecting everything from energy to food prices. “Global trade depends heavily on a few strategic passages. When those are threatened simultaneously, the economic consequences can be far-reaching,” said an international trade analyst. With tensions showing no immediate signs of easing, the risk of further escalation remains high. For now, the situation in both the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb is being closely monitored by governments, shipping firms, and global markets, as the world braces for potential disruptions to critical trade routes. Bab el-Mandeb Strait threat

COMESA headquarters building HARARE, ZIMBABWE  – The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa Competition and Consumer Commission (CCCC) has issued a strong warning to businesses across Eastern and Southern Africa against profiteering and anti-competitive conduct amid surging global oil prices and escalating geopolitical tensions. The caution comes as conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran disrupts global energy markets , pushing crude oil prices above US$100 per barrel, their highest level since 2022. The situation has been worsened by Iran’s reported blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic maritime corridor through which roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply passes. The CCCC warned that the resulting fuel price increases and supply chain disruptions could create conditions for unfair business practices across the COMESA region , particularly in import-dependent economies such as Zimbabwe. CCCC chief executive officer Willard Mwemba said the crisis may tempt some companies to exploit consumers through unethical conduct. “The CCCC is concerned that the Middle East crisis is likely to result in some market operators abusing the situation and engaging in anti-competitive conduct and unfair trade practices such as excessive pricing, collusion, hoarding, and price gouging,” Mwemba said. He stressed that the commission would strictly enforce regional competition and consumer protection laws to maintain fair market conditions. “The CCCC will deploy its full powers to detect, investigate and penalise infringements of the law to protect consumers and ensure markets remain fair and competitive,” he added. Economists say the spike in oil prices is likely to have far-reaching consequences across COMESA member states, driving up transport costs, production expenses, and ultimately consumer prices. Fuel is a key input across sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, and logistics, meaning sustained increases could accelerate inflation and deepen cost-of-living pressures. “Oil price shocks tend to cascade through the entire economy, especially in regions heavily reliant on imports,” said a regional trade analyst. “Without strong regulatory oversight, this also increases the risk of opportunistic pricing behaviour.” While taking a firm stance, Mwemba acknowledged that exceptional circumstances may require some flexibility in enforcement. He pointed to provisions under the COMESA Competition Regulations that allow companies to seek exemptions for certain agreements that may appear anti-competitive, provided they deliver broader public benefits. “Certain conduct may be authorised if the benefits outweigh the negative effects, particularly in times of crisis,” Mwemba said. The commission said it will work closely with national regulators across member states to monitor markets and respond swiftly to violations. Mwemba emphasised that maintaining trust in markets is critical during periods of economic uncertainty. “The CCCC will not allow the crisis to be used as a pretext for collusion, exploitation, or deception. Maintaining trust in markets is essential to the region’s resilience, recovery and enhanced consumer welfare,” he said. The warning underscores growing concern that global geopolitical tensions could quickly translate into local economic shocks, particularly in vulnerable economies. With fuel prices already rising, authorities are urging businesses to act responsibly to avoid worsening the burden on consumers. COMESA competition commission warning

Padel courts at Millennium Heights, Harare HARARE, ZIMBABWE  – Millennium Heights is continuing its transformation into a modern lifestyle hub following the official opening of brand-new padel courts, reinforcing WestProp Holdings’s “live, work, shop, and play” vision. The courts were launched last weekend, with WestProp chief executive Ken Sharpe joining residents on the court to mark the milestone. Padel, a fast-growing global sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, is increasingly being integrated into residential developments as a lifestyle amenity that promotes fitness, social interaction, and community living. Speaking at the launch, Sharpe said the new facility reflects a broader strategy to build integrated communities that go beyond housing. “These courts are more than just a sporting facility; they are a lifestyle statement. They bring together fitness, fun, and community, adding to the vibrant ecosystem that Millennium Heights is steadily building,” he said. The development aligns with WestProp’s ambition, often framed as “Bring Dubai to Zimbabwe,” to deliver premium, mixed-use estates that combine residential, retail, and recreational offerings. The padel courts form part of a wider rollout of lifestyle infrastructure planned for the estate. Sharpe confirmed that additional facilities will include a swimming pool, gym, skating park, clubhouse, tennis courts, as well as cycling and walking tracks. “We are sticking by our promise. We want this and all our estates to be models of luxury integrated lifestyle hubs,” he said. WestProp is also introducing practical convenience services, including a dedicated laundry facility aimed at enhancing everyday living for residents. Ken Sharpe playing padel at the launch event Beyond sports and recreation, Millennium Heights is positioning itself as a fully integrated urban precinct. A key component of this vision is the development of serviced apartments managed by Radisson, which are currently under construction. The apartments are expected to offer hotel-style living, blending residential comfort with hospitality-grade services, an emerging trend in high-end urban developments. Property analysts say such mixed-use developments are gaining traction in Zimbabwe as demand grows for secure, self-contained communities with access to amenities. “Buyers are increasingly looking for convenience and lifestyle in one place where they can live, work, and relax without leaving the estate,” said a Harare-based real estate expert. The introduction of padel courts highlights a shift in Zimbabwe’s property sector towards experience-driven developments, where lifestyle amenities play a central role in attracting residents and investors. As Millennium Heights continues to expand, it is fast becoming a symbol of modern urban living in Harare, where infrastructure, leisure, and community are integrated into a single environment. Millennium Heights padel courts WestProp Holdings

BULAWAYO —   A Bulawayo man has appeared in court accused of siphoning medicines valued at about US$17,640 from the Bulawayo City Council pharmacy, a case that has prompted questions about internal controls in public health facilities. Polite Nkomo (31) pleaded not guilty when he appeared before Magistrate Isheunesu Mathoba . He was granted bail of US$200 and released on conditions pending further investigations. Prosecutors say the probe began after clinic officials noticed discrepancies between medicines requested and medicines received. A requisition from Magwegwe Clinic  triggered a stock audit that revealed the same medication had already been issued earlier, prompting suspicion. The State alleges Nkomo repeatedly collected large quantities of Kocitaf tablets, recording them as delivered to clinics including Magwegwe, Mzilikazi, and Pelandaba, yet those clinics’ records showed no such deliveries. Investigators say supporting delivery documentation could not be produced. Court papers allege Nkomo falsified stock records and completed store issue vouchers to conceal the alleged theft. To date, none of the missing medicines have been recovered, and the matter remains under active investigation. As part of his bail conditions, Nkomo must: Reside at his declared address; Avoid interfering with witnesses; Report weekly to Khumalo Police Station. The Zimbabwe Republic Police and municipal investigators are continuing enquiries to establish how the alleged diversion occurred and whether systemic weaknesses in stock control and oversight contributed to the loss. Health sector observers say the case highlights the need for stronger inventory management, regular audits, and tighter controls at municipal pharmacies to prevent diversion of essential medicines and protect public health resources. The prosecution will pursue further evidence and witness testimony as the case progresses through the courts. Authorities have signalled they will examine internal procedures at the Bulawayo City Council pharmacy to identify and address any control failures. Bulawayo medicine theft 2026

A chronological chart documenting the various amendments made to the 2013 Constitution of Zimbabwe, highlighting the gradual shift in executive powers and the resulting legal challenges. Mutare, Zimbabwe- In a move that has sent shockwaves through Zimbabwe’s legal and civic communities, police in Mutare have arrested former Finance Minister Tendai Biti , journalist Fanuel Chinowaita , lawyer Nyasha Gerald, and activist Morgan Ncube. The group was reportedly mobilizing support for the newly formed Constitutional Defenders Forum (CDF) , a pressure group established to resist the controversial Amendment Bill No. 3. The CDF has emerged as the primary vehicle for those opposing the shift toward a parliamentary-elected Presidency and the extension of terms to seven years. Their mandate includes: Public Awareness: Educating citizens on how the proposed amendments may dilute their direct voting power. Legal Challenges: Preparing litigation to argue that such fundamental changes require a national referendum under Section 328. Civic Mobilization: Creating a "united front" of lawyers, journalists, and activists to safeguard the 2013 Constitution. The inclusion of a journalist (Chinowaita) and a lawyer (Gerald) in the arrests has raised specific alarms: Press Freedom: Reporting on constitutional dissent is increasingly being treated as an act of subversion rather than public interest journalism. Legal Privilege: The arrest of practicing lawyers while engaged in civic education challenges the immunity traditionally afforded to legal practitioners. Executive Overreach: Critics argue that these arrests confirm the CDF’s fears—that the proposed amendments are a precursor to a more restricted democratic space. The arrests occur at a delicate time for Zimbabwe’s international relations. With regional observers already monitoring the public consultation process, the detention of a figure of Biti’s international stature is likely to trigger statements from SADC and international human rights bodies. Legal experts characterize this as " Lawfare ," the use of legal systems and institutions to delegitimize or tie up political opponents in endless court cycles without ever reaching a clear conviction. Tendai Biti Mutare arrest 2026

Grocery shopping in Zimbabwe amid rising costs The Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ) has called on the government to temporarily review fuel taxes, levies, and administrative charges to help ease pressure from rising Zimbabwe fuel prices. The appeal comes as the latest fuel price increase in Zimbabwe  pushes diesel to US$2.05 per litre, up from US$1.52, while petrol (E5) has climbed to US$2.17 from US$1.56 before March 4, 2026. CCZ chief executive Rosemary Mpofu said while rising global oil prices  linked to Middle East tensions are a key factor, domestic pricing structures are significantly shaping the cost of fuel in Zimbabwe. “However, the ZERA price build-up also shows that the final pump price is not determined by import cost alone,” Mpofu said. “It includes taxes and levies, administrative charges, blending costs, distribution costs and margins.” According to the fuel price build-up by Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA), taxes and levies alone account for US$0.422 per litre on diesel and US$0.857 per litre on petrol (Blend E5). “This means the government… could still cushion consumers by reviewing the domestic components of the fuel price,” she added. Mpofu urged authorities to act swiftly to mitigate the fuel price crisis in Zimbabwe, proposing targeted short-term interventions. “CCZ therefore urges Government to act in the short run by temporarily reviewing selected fuel taxes, levies and administrative charges; prioritising relief for public transport and essential food supply chains; and intensifying monitoring of fares and basic commodity prices to curb speculative markups,” she said. The consumer watchdog warned that rising petrol prices in Zimbabwe are already feeding into inflation and increasing the cost of basic goods. CCZ said the low-income urban family basket for a household of six stood at ZWG20,450.90 (about US$600.48) in February 2026, with key items such as margarine, tea leaves, fresh milk, and tomatoes already showing price increases. “These are among the products that tend to respond quickly to transport and distribution cost increases,” Mpofu noted. In practice, the first-round effects of the fuel price increase in Zimbabwe in 2026 have already been seen in commuter fares, milk and bread distribution, fresh produce, and frequently purchased grocery items. “For low-income households, every extra dollar spent on transport reduces what is available for food, rent, school needs, and health care,” she said. As fuel prices in Zimbabwe remain elevated, pressure is mounting on the government to balance external shocks from global oil markets with internal policy adjustments. Analysts say reviewing taxes and levies could provide short-term relief, even as longer-term structural challenges continue to drive the fuel price crisis in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe fuel prices

Road construction site handover — contractor and ministry officials at the site handover HARARE —   The government has moved to the next phase of rehabilitating and widening a 16 km stretch of Seke Road  after formally handing the project to a local contractor, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development said on Thursday, 19 March 2026. The section, which runs from Velvet to ZRP Dema , forms part of the broader 66.5 km Harare–Seke–Zvipadze Road upgrade. Authorities say the full corridor will eventually be expanded from the Harare Main Post Office  to the Ten Miles area in Marondera to improve connectivity and traffic flow. The ministry confirmed that site handover is underway and that work on the 16 km segment is expected to begin soon. The upgrade will include rehabilitation, widening, and resurfacing, with the aim of improving road capacity and safety for commuters and freight traffic. Ministry statement: “Site hand‑over is currently underway for the rehabilitation and widening of Seke Road, covering a 16km stretch running from Velvet to ZRP Dema. This key infrastructure upgrade underscores the Government’s continued efforts and firm commitment to modernising the country’s road network, improving traffic flow, and enhancing road safety.” Pothole patching was recently carried out along the nearby stretch from the Unit H turn‑off to Makoni Shopping Centre  in Chitungwiza, a short distance from Velvet, as part of interim maintenance measures. Residents and road users can expect more sustained construction activity once the contractor mobilises equipment and materials. Officials say the project will reduce travel times, lower vehicle operating costs, and support economic activity in Harare, Chitungwiza, and Marondera by improving a key commuter and commercial route. Timeline and what to watch Immediate next steps: Contractor mobilisation and site establishment. Short term: Commencement of earthworks, widening, and drainage improvements. Medium term: Resurfacing and installation of road safety features. Stakeholder updates: The ministry will publish progress reports and traffic management plans as work advances. Road users are advised to follow traffic advisories and temporary diversions once construction begins. Seke Road rehabilitation 2026

Traditional Malagasy tatao dish served during the New Year ANTANANARIVO, MADAGASCAR  – Madagascar has revived its traditional New Year celebration, Alahamady Be , marking a significant cultural resurgence after decades of dormancy. The pre-colonial festival, rooted in Malagasy royal traditions, returned with ancestral rituals, sacred fire ceremonies, and purification rites, drawing large crowds across the capital, Antananarivo. Celebrations peaked at Mahamasina Stadium, where thousands gathered for music, dance, and traditional performances, signalling renewed public interest in indigenous identity and heritage. Organisers say the revival of Alahamady Be is part of a broader effort to restore Malagasy identity following years of cultural erosion. Mikolo Hasina Ankoay Andrianarisoa, chairperson of the organising committee, said the festival represents a symbolic awakening: “Much of what defines Malagasy identity has been lost, destroyed, or has crumbled away… Today, we must wake up, regain our senses, and realise that there is blood flowing through our veins — and that blood is Malagasy.” Cultural historians note that Alahamady Be was traditionally aligned with the Malagasy lunar calendar and closely linked to the Merina monarchy, before fading during colonial rule and modern state transitions. A central highlight of the celebrations took place on March 19, featuring ritual food offerings and blessings. Attendees were served tatao , a traditional dish of rice cooked in milk and topped with honey, symbolising abundance and prosperity. The ceremony was followed by tsodrano , a sacred blessing ritual led by custodians of tradition. Organisers also emphasised the spiritual importance of Manjakamiadana, a historic royal site within the former palace complex of the Kingdom of Madagascar. Davida Rakoto, one of the tradition’s guardians, said the ability to perform rituals freely at the site marked a historic moment: “After so long, we were finally able to perform the rituals freely and in full on the sacred stone… It had not happened since the time of the kings.” Events were held across major landmarks, including the University of Antananarivo and the historic Rova of Ambohidrabiby, reinforcing the link between heritage and national identity. At Ambohidrabiby, believed to be the birthplace of the Merina kingdom, the ceremonial fire was lit before being symbolically carried across the city and beyond. Violette Randrianjatovo, a local education official, underscored the site’s significance: “Celebrating the Malagasy New Year here is deeply sacred… the fire is lit here first, before being carried across the whole city – and even throughout Madagascar.” The festivities will conclude with hiragasy , a traditional form of Malagasy musical theatre combining song, dance, and storytelling. The performances are widely regarded by scholars as a cornerstone of Malagasy oral tradition and cultural expression. Experts say the return of Alahamady Be reflects a growing movement across Africa to reclaim indigenous traditions and strengthen cultural identity in the face of globalisation. Alahamady Be Madagascar

Energy Minister July Moyo Parliament has called on Energy and Power Development Minister July Moyo to deliver an urgent ministerial statement after the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority raised fuel prices this month. The request comes after two successive fuel price increases in Zimbabwe i n March 2026. On March 4, diesel rose from US$1.52 to US$1.77 per litre, while petrol increased from US$1.56 to US$1.71. A second adjustment on March 18 pushed diesel to US$2.05 and petrol to US$2.17 per litre. Authorities have attributed the hikes to rising global oil prices, driven by escalating tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, with crude oil prices climbing above US$100 per barrel. Speaking in the Parliament of Zimbabwe on Thursday, Marondera Central MP Caston Matewu raised concern over the scale of the increases, noting that Zimbabwe fuel prices have risen far more sharply than in neighbouring countries. “We take note of the geopolitical crisis in the Middle East… which has caused the price of oil to increase in the past few weeks,” Matewu said. “However, the average increase between January and now in fuel in the SADC region is around 5%, but the increase in Zimbabwe between January and now is almost 40%. This is a massive discrepancy.” His remarks highlight growing concern about fuel costs in Zimbabwe, which are now significantly higher than regional averages. Matewu urged Minister Moyo to appear before Parliament to explain the drivers behind the sharp increases and the widening gap between Zimbabwe and other Southern African countries. “It is with that… that we ask that an urgent Ministerial Statement… be given… to address why our fuel is so expensive,” he said. The request reflects mounting pressure on the government to explain the fuel price crisis in Zimbabwe , as rising pump prices continue to drive up transport costs, inflation, and the overall cost of living. The latest increases are expected to have ripple effects across the economy, with higher fuel costs feeding directly into food prices, public transport fares, and business expenses. While global oil price movements remain a key factor, lawmakers are increasingly questioning whether domestic policies, taxes, and supply chain costs are amplifying the impact locally. With petrol now at US$2.17 per litre, attention is shifting to how authorities plan to manage the situation and whether policy adjustments could help cushion consumers. Zimbabwe fuel prices

Walter Chahwanda's court appearance via video link LIVERPOOL, UK  – UK-based Zimbabwean gospel singer turned pastor Walter Chahwanda (33)  has been sentenced to nine years in prison after a jury found him guilty of 17 sexual offences involving minors and young women. The sentence, handed down at a Liverpool court, includes a five-year extended licence period, meaning Chahwanda must serve at least two-thirds of his sentence before being considered for release. He will also be subject to a lifetime Sexual Harm Prevention Order , indefinite inclusion on the sex offenders’ register, and permanent restraining orders barring contact with his victims. Chahwanda appeared via video link from HM Prison Liverpool , wearing a white jacket over a black T-shirt. According to the Crown Prosecution Service, Chahwanda used his position within the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) and later at his own Liverpool-based church, Sound of Dominion, to target victims. Prosecutors said that over four years, he groomed and exploited children and young women he met through church networks, sending explicit sexual images and videos. In sentencing remarks, Judge David Swinnerton described a pattern of calculated abuse: “You abused the trust and power that you had in your position in the church to violate eight different young girls… your behaviour was deliberate, predatory and sustained.” The court heard that all victims were under 18, with two aged just 14 at the time of the offences. Each received unsolicited explicit content from Chahwanda, leaving them “bewildered, confused, and scared.” Judge Swinnerton highlighted the profound psychological impact on the victims, noting that the offences occurred during formative years: “At a time when they were growing up… you stripped them of their dignity and privacy to satisfy your own desires.” Victim impact statements presented in court detailed long-term emotional trauma, with legal observers noting that such cases often involve lasting damage to trust, relationships, and mental health. Legal analysts in the UK say extended sentences are typically imposed in cases where offenders are deemed a continuing risk to the public, particularly minors. “The court clearly assessed him as posing an ongoing danger to young girls,” one UK-based criminal justice expert said, referencing the judge’s decision to impose extended supervision measures. Chahwanda, once a prominent figure in Zimbabwean gospel circles in the UK, had built a reputation as a youth leader and musician. The court heard that his visibility and influence within church communities enabled him to gain the trust of victims and their families. Judge Swinnerton noted that Chahwanda’s public image worked in his favour: “They saw this good figure in the church, and you abused all of that for your sexual urges to come to the fore.” The judge further criticised his lack of remorse, stating that he continued to deny responsibility and showed “no understanding” of the harm caused. The case has raised renewed concerns about safeguarding practices within faith-based organisations, particularly those working with youth. Child protection advocates stress the need for stronger oversight and reporting mechanisms in religious institutions to prevent abuse of authority. Walter Chahwanda sentencing

Bakery production line HARARE, ZIMBABWE  – The price of a standard loaf of bread in Zimbabwe has risen sharply, with a snap survey across major urban centres showing retail prices now ranging between US$1 and US$1.17 , as rising fuel costs continue to push up production and distribution expenses. Industry players say the increase reflects mounting pressure across the supply chain, with bakers citing higher transport costs, wage demands, and more expensive raw materials. The Bakers Association of Zimbabwe confirmed the price movement, noting that production costs have been steadily climbing in recent weeks. Association president Elvis Ncube said while bakers are free to set their own prices, the recommended retail price currently stands at US$1.10 per loaf . “Costs of production are increasing, which is pushing prices up. It is up to individual bakers to set their prices. We have multiple cost drivers,” said Ncube. Zimbabwe’s baking industry relies heavily on daily distribution networks to supply fresh bread nationwide, making it particularly sensitive to fuel price fluctuations. Bakers say recent increases in fuel prices have significantly raised transport costs, affecting both the delivery of finished products and the sourcing of key inputs such as flour and packaging materials. “When we talk of cost escalation, we are not referring to fuel only. Wages are rising, suppliers have increased prices for materials, and fuel is also required for production and distribution,” Ncube added. Economists say the bread price increase highlights how fuel costs continue to act as a key inflation driver in Zimbabwe’s economy, with knock-on effects across essential goods. “Bread is a staple commodity, so any increase in its price is immediately felt by households and reflects broader inflationary pressures,” said a Harare-based economic analyst. A spot check by Southerton Business Times  in areas including Harare, Bulawayo, and Mutare confirmed the price range, with some retailers already pricing above the recommended level. Consumers expressed concern over the continued rise in the cost of basic goods. “Bread is something we buy almost every day. When the price goes up, it affects the whole household budget,” said a shopper in Harare’s central business district. Bakers warn that profit margins are being squeezed as input costs rise faster than consumer purchasing power, forcing difficult pricing decisions. The sector has also faced recurring challenges linked to foreign currency shortages, fluctuating exchange rates, and rising utility costs, all of which feed into the final shelf price. Analysts note that unless cost pressures ease, particularly fuel prices, further increases in bread and other basic commodities remain likely. The latest bread price hikes are expected to intensify cost-of-living pressures for Zimbabwean households already grappling with rising prices of food, transport, and other essentials. With bread widely regarded as a daily staple, even small increases can have an outsized impact on low-income consumers. Zimbabwe bread price increase

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