HARARE – Constitutional lawyer Advocate Thabani Mpofu says he remains firmly opposed to the proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3), but insists that opposition to the legislation should not be driven by sympathy for Vice President Constantino Chiwenga.
By Advent Shoko
Mpofu made the remarks amid growing political debate over CAB3, which some analysts believe could weaken Chiwenga’s prospects of eventually succeeding President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
In a strongly worded statement, Mpofu accused Chiwenga and some political figures of embracing constitutional changes only when they served their interests and rejecting them once they became personally affected.
“They are spiteful when they feel invincible. The painful irony in this speech is impossible to ignore.”
He argued that those who previously supported constitutional amendments targeting political opponents could not now expect solidarity after finding themselves on the receiving end.
“As long as the amendment was directed at us and sought to undermine our interests you were ok with it. Now we must rally behind you because the very same amendment has caused you personal injury? No Sir, that’s not how it’s done.”
Mpofu said constitutional principles should remain consistent regardless of who stands to benefit or lose.
“Our principles must be consistent and Zimbabwe must always come first.”
He concluded by making his position clear.
“In the meantime a big NO to CAB3 but not in defence of Sokostina.”
His comments appear to reference a resurfaced video in which Chiwenga, addressing supporters, declared that ZANU PF would remain in power indefinitely while dismissing the opposition’s chances of governing. Watch the video below:
In the video, Chiwenga boasts that ZANU PF would “rule forever,” tells opposition supporters to focus on “eating sadza,” and suggests the governing party has the numbers to amend the Constitution.
The remarks have resurfaced as debate over CAB3 intensifies.
The proposed constitutional amendment has become one of Zimbabwe’s most contentious political issues. Critics argue it could significantly reshape the country’s governance framework, while supporters maintain it is intended to improve the functioning of the state.
Chiwenga has expressed reservations about aspects of the proposed amendment, arguing that the principle of one person, one vote was among the ideals that inspired Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle against colonial rule.
Mpofu’s latest intervention adds another voice to the growing debate, underscoring that opposition to CAB3, in his view, should be rooted in constitutional principle rather than political convenience or the personal fortunes of individual leaders.
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