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Constitution Is Not Your Personal Toy, Opposition Movement Challenges Mnangagwa<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
By A Correspondent \u2013 The Action Democratic Movement has sharply criticised President Emmerson Mnangagwa over the proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill, warning that the changes threaten Zimbabwe\u2019s democratic foundations.<\/p>\n
In a statement released on Saturday, the movement described the current political developments as a direct attack on the will of the people.
\u201cOur nation stands at a defining crossroads,\u201d the statement read. \u201cWhat we are witnessing today is not governance\u2014it is a calculated assault on the will of the people.\u201d<\/p>\n
The movement took particular aim at proposals that could shift the election of the President from the electorate to Parliament, arguing that such a move undermines the core principles of democracy.<\/p>\n
\u201cA constitution is not a toy to be reshaped for personal ambition. It is a sacred contract between the citizens and their leaders,\u201d the statement said. \u201cAny attempt to transfer the power to elect a President from the people to Parliament is nothing short of a betrayal of that contract.\u201d<\/p>\n
Reaffirming its stance, the movement stressed that authority must remain with the citizens. \u201cPower belongs to the people of Zimbabwe\u2014not to a handful of politicians,\u201d it declared.<\/p>\n
The Action Democratic Movement also accused political leaders of seeking to erode democratic processes for their own benefit.<\/p>\n
\u201cThose who once came to power through the manipulation of the ballot now seek to weaken that very ballot,\u201d the statement said. \u201cExtending presidential terms and removing the direct voice of citizens is not reform\u2014it is regression.\u201d<\/p>\n
According to the movement, such actions risk pushing the country toward authoritarianism. \u201cIt is a dangerous path that leads away from democracy and toward unchecked rule,\u201d the statement warned.<\/p>\n
Encouraging citizens to remain resolute, the movement added: \u201cZimbabweans must not be silenced by fear. The constitution is your shield. Your voice is your power. Your unity is your strength.\u201d
The movement also called on various stakeholders to take a stand, including civic groups, religious institutions, and regional bodies.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe call upon all Zimbabweans to remain vigilant, informed, and united,\u201d the statement said. \u201cCivic society and churches must stand firm in defending constitutionalism.\u201d<\/p>\n
Appealing to international actors, the movement urged the Southern African Development Community not to ignore developments in Zimbabwe. \u201cThe region and the international community must uphold democratic principles and not turn a blind eye on Zimbabwe\u2014 all is not well,\u201d the statement said.<\/p>\n
The movement concluded by urging citizens to defend their democratic rights. \u201cWe must reject any attempt to take away our right to choose our own leaders. Zimbabwe\u2019s future must be determined at the ballot box\u2014not behind closed doors,\u201d it said.<\/p>\n
\u201cLet us defend our Constitution. Let us defend our democracy. Let us defend Zimbabwe. The time to stand is now.\u201d<\/p>\n
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