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ZANU PF Does Not Own Constitution, Opposition Movement Declares<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
Tinashe Sambiri\u2013 The Action Democratic Movement (ADM) has warned against any attempts to alter Zimbabwe\u2019s Constitution for the benefit of those currently in power, saying the country\u2019s supreme law belongs to the people and not to any political party.<\/p>\n
In a statement released on Thursday, the opposition movement said Zimbabwe was approaching a critical political moment as discussions surrounding constitutional amendments and the \u201c2030\u201d slogan continue to gain traction.<\/p>\n
\u201cFellow Zimbabweans, our nation finds itself at a very serious crossroads,\u201d the party said.<\/p>\n
According to ADM, what initially appeared to be political rhetoric is increasingly being transformed into formal proposals that could potentially alter the foundations of the country\u2019s democracy.<\/p>\n
\u201cOver the past few years we have witnessed what many dismissed as political slogans slowly transforming into a deliberate effort to alter the foundation of our democracy \u2014 the Constitution of Zimbabwe,\u201d the statement read.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat began as chants of \u20182030\u2019 is now being discussed in the language of legislation and constitutional amendments.\u201d<\/p>\n
The party stressed that Zimbabwe\u2019s Constitution was crafted to safeguard democratic principles and prevent the emergence of long-term rule by a single leader or political group.<\/p>\n
\u201cLet us be very clear: the Constitution of Zimbabwe was not written for one man, one party, or one generation of leaders. It was written by the people of Zimbabwe to protect the future of our country, to ensure peaceful transfer of power, and to prevent the return of life presidencies that our continent has suffered from before.\u201d<\/p>\n
ADM warned that any effort to extend or manipulate constitutional term limits would undermine the democratic aspirations of citizens.<\/p>\n
\u201cAny attempt to manipulate or stretch constitutional term limits for the benefit of those currently in power is not a victory for stability \u2014 it is a betrayal of the democratic aspirations of our people,\u201d the party said.<\/p>\n
The movement also emphasised that Zimbabwe\u2019s independence struggle was fought to ensure the voice of ordinary citizens would shape the country\u2019s leadership and governance.<\/p>\n
\u201cZimbabweans did not struggle for independence so that power could simply change hands within a ruling elite while the voice of the people is ignored. The rule of law must never be replaced by the rule of political convenience.\u201d<\/p>\n
The party reiterated its commitment to democratic governance, constitutionalism and regular elections.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs ADM, we believe in constitutionalism, accountability, and the right of the people to choose their leaders freely and regularly through credible elections.\u201d<\/p>\n
Addressing the broader public, the movement insisted that the country ultimately belongs to its citizens rather than political actors.<\/p>\n
\u201cZimbabwe does not belong to any individual. Zimbabwe does not belong to any political party. Zimbabwe belongs to its people.\u201d<\/p>\n
The party urged Zimbabweans to remain alert and united in protecting the country\u2019s constitutional order.<\/p>\n
\u201cTo the people of Zimbabwe, I say: remain vigilant, remain peaceful, and remain united in defending our Constitution.\u201d<\/p>\n
It added that history has shown that the collective will of citizens can eventually overcome attempts to undermine democratic principles.<\/p>\n
\u201cHistory has taught us that when citizens stand firm for democratic principles, no manipulation of power can last forever.\u201d<\/p>\n
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