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Zanu PF Commissar Munyaradzi Machacha Turns Church Gathering Into Political Rally<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
Tinashe Sambiri\u2013 Zanu PF Political Commissar Munyaradzi Machacha faced criticism after using a church Easter gathering to push support for the controversial Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill, sparking fears of political interference in religious spaces.<\/p>\n
Addressing thousands of members of the Johane the 5th of Africa International Church at Cranborne Open Grounds in Harare, Machacha praised congregants for backing the Bill and claimed their support would influence parliamentary decisions.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are confident that their voices will be incorporated for a final draft of the Bill into law,\u201d Machacha said. \u201cAs a party we are happy that we now have civic society on our side; we now have all the citizens expressing themselves supporting the Bill.\u201d<\/p>\n
Critics argue that the event blurred the lines between church and state, with Machacha using religious influence to mobilize political support. <\/p>\n
One observer commented, speaking on condition of anonymity, \u201cIt\u2019s alarming when political leaders co-opt congregations to endorse policies. The church should be a neutral space, not a political tool.\u201d<\/p>\n
Machacha further insisted, \u201cAs a revolutionary mass party, we accept the views which come from the majority, especially views from the church. It is an important constituency which we consider in our planning.\u201d<\/p>\n
The church\u2019s founder, Archbishop Dr Andby Makururu, also endorsed the amendment, claiming it would allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to complete ongoing development projects and reduce election pressures. <\/p>\n
\u201cPolitical parties constantly plan for election instead of focusing on development. When the election cycle is extended to seven years, focus will be on development building, implementing, delivering and completing projects which are currently underway,\u201d Makururu said.<\/p>\n
While the Archbishop framed the endorsement as a call for national peace and development, opponents warn that it signals an unhealthy alliance between political authorities and religious institutions.<\/p>\n
\u201cUsing a congregation of millions to validate a political agenda sets a dangerous precedent,\u201d said another political analyst, requesting anonymity.
The Parliament of Zimbabwe continues to accept public submissions on the Bill until May 17, but critics fear that events like the Machacha-backed rally may intimidate citizens and skew genuine consultation.<\/p>\n
Observers say the incident underscores growing concerns over Zanu PF\u2019s attempts to use influential institutions, including churches, to manufacture political consent rather than allow independent public debate.<\/p>\n
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