We Don’t Fear Referendum, Zanu PF Manicaland Boss Declares .. . – Eduzim News

Tinashe Sambiri– Misheck Mugadza, the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Manicaland, has stated that ZANU-PF is not intimidated by growing calls for a national referendum on the Constitutional Amendment (No. 3) Bill.

Speaking to party members and affiliates earlier this week, Mugadza projected confidence, insisting the ruling party would emerge victorious if a referendum were to be conducted.

“Do you think ZANU PF fears a referendum? As ZANU-PF, we always win, and they cannot stop us. There is no issue here,” he said.

He maintained that the proposed constitutional changes do not legally require public approval through a referendum, dismissing concerns raised by critics.

“We are not violating the Constitution, so there is no need for a referendum — it is just a postponement of the election,” Mugadza added.

The Constitutional Amendment (No. 3) Bill of 2026 has triggered widespread debate across Zimbabwe, with critics arguing that it carries significant implications for governance and democratic processes.

Among the proposed changes are extending the terms of the President, Members of Parliament, and local authorities from five to seven years.

The bill also seeks to shift presidential selection from a direct public vote to a parliamentary process, while removing public interviews in the appointment of judges.

The developments have intensified scrutiny over the direction of constitutional reforms, with stakeholders divided over the necessity and impact of the proposed amendments.

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