HARARE – The Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations (ZHOCD), representing the nation’s top churches, have issued a stern pastoral statement condemning the proposed Constitutional Amendment (No. 3) Bill, 2026, warning it threatens the spirit of the 2013 Constitution and risks undermining democratic governance. Quoting Matthew 20:25-28, the pastoral statement reads:
“Leadership is service, not domination. We call all citizens to prayerful reflection, constitutional faithfulness, and servant leadership as our nation deliberates on these amendments.”
The statement, released on 27 February 2026, comes amid growing public debate over Bill 3, which proposes extending presidential and parliamentary terms, restructuring the Senate, weakening independent commissions, and potentially removing direct presidential elections. ZHOCD emphasises that such amendments should not proceed without a national referendum, arguing they bypass the people’s voice.
Church leaders highlight moral and constitutional risks
The pastoral statement reflects deep concern over what church leaders describe as grave moral and constitutional implications. Citing Micah 6:8, ZHOCD writes:
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”
They argue that the proposed amendments threaten these principles by centralising power in the executive, limiting citizen participation, and eroding the checks and balances enshrined in the 2013 Constitution.
ZHOCD also reminds the public of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s earlier pledge not to seek a third term, warning that ignoring this commitment would “deeply wound the nation’s trust and the moral standing of the Second Republic.”
A call to prayer, civic engagement, and conscience
The pastoral statement directly addresses three key groups:
- Zimbabweans and people of faith, Urged to pray for wisdom, courage, and peace, and engage MPs through lawful, respectful civic action. The statement stresses non-violent advocacy grounded in love and Scripture.
- Members of Parliament, Called to uphold their oath, prioritise principle over expedience, and refuse amendments that weaken constitutional democracy.
- President Mnangagwa, Urged to honour his constitutionalist role, maintain the integrity of the Constitution, and oversee a smooth 2028 leadership transition.
Bishops stress:
“Good leadership is reflected in a willingness to serve without attachment to position, building successors, and leading smooth transitions for a shared future of the country.”
Historical context and civic engagement
ZHOCD notes that the Church played a pivotal role in shaping the 2013 Constitution. Before its adoption, churches mobilised communities to participate in COPAC forums, ensuring public voices influenced the charter. The pastoral statement frames Bill 3 as a step back from these hard-won democratic gains, risking conflict by undermining citizen participation.
The Church emphasises its ongoing role in promoting constitutionalism, national dialogue, and civic education, aligning with Vision 2030 and Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy (NDS2). They have launched a “National Dialogue and Engagement Document”, aimed at fostering inclusive public discussion on governance and the Constitution.
Implications for Zimbabwe’s democracy
Analysts say the Church’s intervention underscores a broader societal concern: the need to safeguard institutions, protect citizens’ rights, and maintain peaceful democratic processes. By speaking out, ZHOCD positions itself as a moral watchdog, reminding both leaders and citizens of their responsibilities to justice, accountability, and service.
As the nation deliberates, ZHOCD calls for a peaceful, prayerful, and principled response, warning that constitutional shortcuts could damage Zimbabwe’s democratic trajectory for generations. Quoting Jeremiah 29:7 and Amos 5:24, the statement concludes:
“May the God of peace grant us courage to do what is right, wisdom to preserve justice, and love to bind us together as one people.”
Key takeaway: ZHOCD’s pastoral statement serves as a clarion call for constitutional integrity, moral leadership, and citizen engagement, asserting that Bill 3, 2026, must not undermine the people-driven 2013 Constitution.
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