by Gideon Madzikatidze/Simbarashe Sithole
HARARE – The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has slammed ZANU PF’s proposed Constitutional Amendments as a ‘direct assault on democratic rights’, warning that the people’s mandate is at risk.
Led by Dr. Daniel Shumba, the UDA (through party statement) rejects the plan to transfer presidential elections from citizens to Parliament, calling it a ‘betrayal of constitutional order’.
“This is a power grab, plain and simple. A President with sweeping executive powers must seek a direct mandate from the people, not hide behind a captured Parliament,” Shumba declared.
The UDA argues the move would foster patronage and deal-making, undermining accountability and good governance.
“It’s a recipe for entitlement and partisan conduct,” the party stated.
The proposal has also raised concerns about judicial independence, with the UDA questioning the Chief Justice’s role in overseeing parliamentary elections.
The UDA alleges that ZANU PF’s motivations are coming on the background that they know they cannot win a free and fair contest.
“They’re trying to bypass the people entirely. That would be the greatest betrayal of democracy in the history of the country’s liberation foundation,” Shumba said.
The UDA urges Zimbabweans to reject this ‘legislative maneuvering’ and defend their democratic rights.
“Nyika ndeyedu tese – the country belongs to us all,” the party declared.
The country’s cabinet backed draft legislation that would change the constitution to extend presidential terms from five years to seven, allowing President Emmerson Mnangagwa to stay in office until 2030.
Other proposed changes in the bill presented to the cabinet on Tuesday include a provision that the president be elected by parliament rather than through a direct popular vote.
Meanwhile, Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi has told a news conference that the bill will be sent to the speaker of parliament and published in an official gazette before lawmakers consider it.