Zimbabwe opposition and church condemn proposed constitutional amendment Bill 3

Zimbabwe’s Catholic Bishops have publicly denounced the Government’s proposed Constitution Amendment (No. 3) Bill, saying it would shift presidential elections from a direct vote to Parliament, extend political terms, and weaken key institutions such as the judiciary and the Electoral Commission. In an eight‑page statement dated 12 May, the Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference warned that the changes threaten democratic participation, institutional independence and constitutional safeguards, and urged Parliament to reject provisions that undermine the people’s sovereignty.

At the same time, former opposition leader Nelson Chamisa drew heavy criticism after reportedly dismissing an anti‑CAB3 alliance of opposition groups. Activists, journalists and commentators accused Chamisa of weakening resistance to the controversial amendment, sparking a backlash against his stance.

Both the bishops’ objections and the dispute over the opposition’s strategy highlight growing domestic opposition to the amendment, which could reshape Zimbabwe’s electoral system and balance of power.