UANC Backs CAB 3 but Calls for Safeguards on Electoral Reform

By Desire Tshuma

Harare – The United African National Council (UANC) says it supports Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 in principle, arguing the changes can promote national unity and policy stability, but it wants strong safeguards to protect accountability and public participation.

In a position paper released from Harare, the UANC, which governed during the 1979–1980 transition to independence, said constitutional reforms must advance “national unity, democratic participation, sovereignty, stability, and long-term national development.”

The party listed several reasons for its qualified support. It said CAB 3 could reduce election-driven polarization and give government longer time to implement development plans, stabilize the economy, and complete infrastructure projects. It also backed proposals to reform election administration and to cut campaign costs, citing the 2023 elections where 11 presidential candidates spent nearly US$220,000.

UANC further welcomed discussion of electoral models that emphasize parliamentary leadership and a president elected by MPs, noting similar systems in Brazil, Israel, Germany, and South Africa can reduce winner-takes-all tensions if properly designed.

But the party flagged areas needing refinement. It called for nationwide civic education in local languages, guarantees of electoral transparency and independence, constitutional limits on extended terms, and firm protection of freedom of speech and assembly. It also urged inclusivity, saying churches, women’s groups, youth, traditional leaders, academics, and civil society must all be heard.

“The UANC believes Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 presents both opportunities and responsibilities for a better Zimbabwe,” the party said. “If implemented wisely, transparently, and inclusively, these reforms may contribute to national stability, sovereign democratic development, reduced political conflict and polarization, and long-term national planning.”

The UANC said constitutional frameworks should not entrench any single party, and that mature opposition must remain “government in waiting.”