By A Correspondent| Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition, in collaboration with Magamba Network and WELEAD Trust on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 hosted an online discussion under the topic, “Power and Constitutionalism in Zimbabwe: The masses or the ruling elite?”.

The discussion is part of efforts aimed at mobilising citizens to defend the constitution and promote a culture of constitutionalism in Zimbabwe especially in light of the continued mutilation of the constitution by the ruling elite.

The Coalition has launched a grassroots campaign that seeks to strengthen citizen agency in promoting constitutionalism a d to defend the democratic space in Zimbabwe.

The campaign is in light of the apparent efforts by Zimbabwe’s ruling party, ZANU PF to amend the constitution and extend President Emmerson Mnangwagwa’s term of office beyond 2028.

The Coalition is on record that these amendments to the Constitution are simply meant to entrench authoritarian rule and are a push by a group of self-serving politicians.

Panelists at the online discussion included social justice activist, Tendai Reuben Mbofana and pro-democracy activist, Tapiwanashe Chiriga.

The discussion noted how the constitution of Zimbabwe continues to be mutilated for selfish political gains with the ruling elite making deliberate efforts to weaken Chapter 12 institutions which were established to promote democracy in Zimbabwe.

The panelists also noted that the move to extend President Mnangagwa’s term beyond 2028 poses a major threat to the constitution of Zimbabwe hence the need for a broad based (grassroots based) movement to protect the country’s supreme law.

Community mobilisation was identified as key in mobilising citizens to push for a culture of.constitutionalism and respect of the constitution of Zimbabwe.

Engaging Zimbabweans in the diaspora and regional solidarity partners was also identified as key.

It also came out during the meeting that there is need to exhaust peaceful channels as guaranteed under the constitution to push for implementation and respect of the supreme law.

The Coalition reiterates it’s commitment to mobilising grassroots communities to push for respect of the constitution while resisting entrenchment of authoritarian rule through mutilation of the country’s supreme law.

Strengthening citizen agency remains a key aspect in this regard and The Coalition shall continue to leverage on its Constitutional Hubs established across the country.