Support for Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3) is gaining momentum in Manicaland Province.
In an interview with this publication yesterday , Zanu-PF District Coordinating Committee (DCC) Mutare Chairman Tarwireyi Mabika said the province was firmly behind the proposed amendment, highlighting its economic and administrative benefits.
“CAB3 is important because it addresses one of the major challenges we face as a country frequent and costly elections.
Elections require significant financial resources, and this amendment will help ensure that the nation is not always in campaign mode.By streamlining how the President is chosen, we can redirect resources towards development,”said Mabika
DCC Mutare Vice Chairman Knowledge Chipayi said the bill would enhance efficiency in governance while allowing Government to focus on long-term national programmes.
“This amendment is progressive in that it seeks to bring stability. When a country is constantly preparing for elections, development can slow down.
CAB3 introduces a system where elected Members of Parliament take part in choosing the President, which reduces the burden of repeated nationwide elections,”Chipayi said
In Chipinge, Ama2K4ED member Molleen Zvuta said young people supported the bill for its potential to improve economic focus and reduce unnecessary public expenditure.
“As youths, we want to see resources being channelled towards opportunities, not just elections. CAB3 gives us hope that more funds will go into empowerment programmes.
It also promotes continuity in leadership, which is important for long-term planning,”said Zvuta
Rusape-based vendor Clemence Mhasvi echoed similar sentiments, saying the cost of elections ultimately affects ordinary citizens.
“Money used for elections could be used to improve markets, roads and services. If CAB3 reduces these costs, then it is something we support.We want a stable environment where businesses can grow without disruptions,”he said
Meanwhile, Berchnough –Mutare route conductor Simon Husva said stability in leadership would benefit transport operators and the broader economy.
“Too many elections can disrupt business. What we need is consistency and focus on development. If CAB3 helps achieve that by allowing MPs to elect the President, then it is a step in the right direction,”he noted
Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 proposes changes to this framework, including shifting the responsibility of electing the President to Members of Parliament under the Parliament of Zimbabwe.
