Crisis Coalition rallies Zanu PF loyalists to join anti-ED2030 campaign

By Nkosana Dlamini

Prominent pro-democracy group, Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition has called on all forces, including Zanu PF loyalists, to join what it terms a comprehensive resistance to President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s bid to stay in office beyond his constitutionally mandated two-term limit.

In a statement Tuesday, the Coalition’s spokesperson Marvellous Kumalo warned of dire economic consequences if Mnangagwa gets his way, further dismissing the Zimbabwean leader’s repeated public denials he was driving the unpopular ED2030 agenda.

The under-fire leader has said he would adhere to the constitution by not seeking extension of his term in office.

“We firmly believe that the President’s repeated assertions of compliance with constitutional mandates serve merely as a smokescreen to mask the true intentions of those pushing for constitutional amendments.

“His failure to intervene and curb the voices advocating for these changes raises questions about his commitment to upholding the principles upon which our constitution is built,” Kumalo said.

Kumalo also slammed some senior government officials and singled out war veterans chief Douglas Mahiya who have adamantly vowed to “dismantle constitutional safeguards” aimed at facilitating a third term for Mnangagwa.

He said the controversial manoeuvres “highlight a troubling shift towards authoritarianism” and further pose a “significant threat to the country’s democratic framework and must be actively opposed to protect Zimbabwe”.

Kumalo warned that the consequences of extended term limits are not only limited to democratic erosion, but also “designed to consolidate executive power, enabling the President to operate without accountability to the populace or other branches of government”.

“The economy risks further collapse as corruption, nepotism and other ills rise,” Kumalo said.

“As Zimbabwe grapples with a severe economic crisis, it is disheartening to observe the ruling party diverting its attention away from unifying the nation and addressing the pressing needs of its citizens. The state of our roads, schools, hospitals and public transport is sorry.”

The former legislator said the Coalition is “taking decisive action to organize a comprehensive resistance campaign against these unconstitutional and illicit amendments”.

Hew added, “We have established various platforms and devised multifaceted strategies aimed at defending the integrity of our nation’s constitution.

“We call upon all citizens and progressive entities, including those in Zanu PF, to remain vigilant and reject the hollow promises and misleading rhetoric “of progress” emanating from President Mnangagwa.

“Together, we must stand firm in our commitment to preserving democracy and ensuring that the voice of the people prevails. Zimbabwe is our only country and we have a duty to defend it!”