Let us uphold the People’s Constitution
Extending the Presidential should not even be an issue of discussion, It is crucial to respect the foundational principles laid out in the constitution of Zimbabwe, which is a direct reflection of the people’s will. The constitution is not merely a legal document; it encapsulates the aspirations, rights and responsibilities of the citizens it serves.
One of the core reasons against extending presidential terms is the principle of democracy itself. Democratic systems are built on the belief that leaders should be accountable to the people. The constitution, as the supreme law, establishes the framework for governance and defines the duration of presidential terms. Altering these provisions undermines the very essence of democracy by concentrating power in the hands of a single individual or a group of parliamentarians, which can lead to authoritarianism.
Moreover, extending the presidential term can create a slippery slope, setting a dangerous precedent for future governance. If one administration can change the rules to prolong its stay in power, it opens the door for subsequent leaders to do the same. This erosion of checks and balances can destabilize the political environment, leading to civil unrest and diminishing public trust in governmental institutions.
The Zimbabwean context is particularly illustrative. The nation has a rich history of political struggle and a commitment to democratic ideals. The current constitution was crafted to reflect the lessons learned from past experiences, emphasising the importance of term limits as a safeguard against tyranny. Any attempt to extend presidential terms contradicts this hard-fought progress and disrespects the sacrifices made by many for a more democratic society.
Furthermore, public sentiment plays a critical role in any democratic process. The voices of the people must be central to any discussions about governance. By adhering to the established constitutional framework, the government demonstrates its commitment to listening to its citizens. Engaging in discussions to extend presidential terms without widespread public support can lead to backlash and increased polarisations within society.
The idea of extending the presidential term is not merely a political strategy, it is a violation of the people’s constitution. Upholding the constitution ensures that leaders remain accountable to the electorate and reinforces the democratic values that are essential for national stability. To preserve democratic integrity and reflect the will of the people, it is imperative that presidential terms remain fixed, safeguarding the future of governance in Zimbabwe and beyond.
This is a bad move for Zimbabwe’s politics.
Engineer Jacob Kudzayi Mutisi
