The Constitution Was Meant to Protect Zimbabweans—Not Those in Power

Why Constitution Amendment No. 3 Is a Threat to Democracy

By Rumbidzai Thelma Chidewu

13^th July 2026

A constitution is the supreme law of a nation. It exists to protect the rights of citizens, limit the abuse of power, and ensure that governments remain accountable to the people. When constitutional changes appear to serve the interests of those in power rather than the nation, every citizen has a duty to ask difficult questions.

The enactment of Constitution Amendment Act No. 3 has become one of the most controversial political developments in Zimbabwe's recent history. Many Zimbabweans believe the amendment weakens democratic governance and shifts the Constitution away from its intended purpose of protecting the people.

On 10 July 2026, Zimbabweans living in the United Kingdom and democracy activists gathered outside the Zimbabwe Embassy to peacefully protest the signing of the amendment into law. Their message was clear: the Constitution belongs to the people, not to any political party or individual.

Many citizens believe the amendment offers little hope for ordinary Zimbabweans who continue to face economic hardship, unemployment, failing public services, and rising poverty. Instead, critics argue that the changes strengthen political power while doing little to improve the daily lives of the people.

The process leading to the amendment has also raised serious concerns. Opposition parties, civic organisations, and democracy advocates have alleged that intimidation, political pressure, and inducements were used to secure support for the Bill. Allegations that some public officials and Members of Parliament received financial rewards or vehicles have been widely reported in political debate, although these claims remain contested and have not been conclusively established by the courts.

Equally worrying is the growing fear among many Zimbabweans of speaking openly about political issues. Reports of arrests, abductions, and the prosecution of government critics have created an atmosphere in which many people feel that expressing a different opinion comes with serious personal risk. Democracy cannot flourish where fear replaces freedom.

The protest at the Zimbabwe Embassy was not driven by hatred or division. It was an expression of love for Zimbabwe and a desire to see a nation governed by the rule of law, constitutionalism, and respect for the will of the people.

As democracy activists, we cannot remain silent when we believe the Constitution is being used to consolidate political power rather than protect the rights of citizens. Peaceful protest is not a crime. Speaking out against injustice is not an act of disloyalty. It is the responsibility of every citizen who believes in democracy.

Zimbabwe deserves leaders who place the interests of the people above political survival. The country's future should be determined by its citizens through free, fair, and democratic processes—not through constitutional changes that many believe undermine the spirit of the 2013 Constitution.

Our call remains firm and peaceful:
No to Constitutional Amendment No. 3.
No to extending political power through constitutional manipulation.
No to fear, intimidation, and the silencing of citizens.

Yes to democracy.
Yes to constitutionalism.

Yes to a Zimbabwe where every citizen can speak freely, participate without fear, and determine the future of their nation.

History will remember those who defended democracy when it was under threat. May we all have the courage to stand on the right side of history.

About the author
Rumbidzai Thelma Chidewu is a Zimbabwean human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is in the Midlands Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.  She can be contacted by email at rumbidzaithelmazhanje@gmail.com 

ZIMBABWE EMBASSY CONSTITUTION AMENDMENT ACT#3 DEMONSTRATION – FRIDAY 10.07.2026

Tuesday 13th July 2026

ROHR Zimbabwe, in collaboration with ZHRO and CDF, participated in a demonstration organised by
CDF to coincide with the “Zimbabwe Diaspora Business Forum” held at the Zimbabwe Embassy in London on Friday, 10 July 2026.

The purpose of the demonstration was to ensure that forum participants were made aware of the prevailing situation in Zimbabwe, including concerns relating to poor governance, the erosion of the rule of law, policy inconsistency, corruption, and the broader economic decline.

We sought to inform members of the international community, particularly potential investors, of the risks associated with investing in Zimbabwe. These include an unpredictable policy environment and the absence of effective legal recourse in instances where investments may be undermined or expropriated, exacerbated by concerns over judicial independence.

The demonstration also highlighted the recent enactment of Constitution Amendment Act No. 3 (Act No. 6 of 2026), which was a significant erosion of citizens’ rights to universal suffrage and indicative of a shift towards entrenched executive power and a step towards the establishment of a Mnangagwa dynasty.

Participants reaffirmed their commitment to continue opposing this constitutional amendment and to advocate for the restoration of diaspora voting rights.

During the demonstration, a small group identifying themselves as “Children of War Veterans,” aligned with ZANU-PF, attempted to counter the protest at the embassy entrance. However, their efforts were overshadowed by the significantly larger presence of demonstrators, and they subsequently withdrew into the embassy premises.

Following the successful delivery of our message, the demonstration concluded peacefully after 20:00 hrs.

For pictures and videos taken at the demonstration please follow this link.

ROHR Zimbabwe BBQ Fundraiser - A Powerful Demonstration of Unity, Human Dignity, and Collective Action

By Elizabeth Chitengo

30^th June 2026

The Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe proudly celebrates the remarkable success of the
ROHR Zimbabwe BBQ Fundraiser, held on Saturday, 27 June 2026, at The White Hart,77 Westgate End, WF2 9RL, Wakefield. More than a social gathering, this historic event became a powerful expression of solidarity, compassion, and the unwavering commitment of Zimbabweans across the United Kingdom to defend human rights and restore hope to vulnerable communities back home.

The outstanding turnout reflected the strength and determination of a diaspora community that refused to turn away from injustice. It demonstrated that although we may be separated by thousands of miles, we remain united by our shared responsibility to protect the dignity, rights, and well-being of those most at risk.

This year's fundraiser was dedicated to supporting two critical humanitarian initiatives: the Bulawayo Shelter for the Girl Child, which provides refuge, protection, and hope for girls escaping abuse, exploitation, and homelessness, and the Mutare People Living with Albinism Support Programme, which champions the rights, inclusion, and dignity of people living with albinism who continue to face discrimination, stigma, and social exclusion.

Throughout the day, the venue came alive with music, cultural performances, energetic dancing, and the infectious spirit of Gotchi Gotchi. Yet behind every smile, every performance, and every celebration was a profound purpose—to stand together for justice, equality, and the protection of fundamental human rights.

The event also served as an important platform for networking and collaboration, bringing together human rights defenders, community leaders, professionals, supporters, and members of the Zimbabwean diaspora to strengthen partnerships and reaffirm our collective commitment to social justice and sustainable community development.

ROHR Zimbabwe extends its deepest appreciation to every individual who attended, donated, volunteered, performed, sponsored, and supported this initiative. Your generosity is more than financial support—it is an investment in human dignity. It is a declaration that vulnerable girls deserve safety, that people living with albinism deserve equality and protection, and that no member of our society should ever be forgotten.

 As human rights defenders, we recognise that our work does not end with one successful event. The challenges facing vulnerable communities in Zimbabwe remain significant, but so too does our resolve. Every contribution made, every partnership formed, and every voice raised strengthens our movement for justice and brings us closer to a society where the rights of every individual are respected, protected, and fulfilled.

This fundraiser reminded us of a simple but profound truth: when ordinary people unite around extraordinary values, they become a force capable of transforming lives.

We therefore call upon Zimbabweans across the globe, our friends, partners, and all people of goodwill, to continue standing with us. Together, we can provide protection where there is vulnerability, hope where there is despair, and opportunity where there has been exclusion.

The struggle for human rights is not the responsibility of a few—it is the collective duty of us all.

Together, we are stronger.
Together, we defend human rights.
Together, we restore hope.
Together, we transform lives.
Aluta Continua. Victory is certain.

Pictures and videos taken at the event can be viewed via the following hyperlink;-
https://www.flickr.com/photos/rohr_zimbabwe__manchester/albums/72177720334445987/

About the author
Elizabeth Chitengo is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is in the South Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.  She can be contacted by email at elizabethchitengo98@gmail.com 

Zimbabweans Deserve Dignity, Not Abandonment

by Chiedza Kambari

5^th July 2026

The ongoing situation involving Zimbabweans waiting for transport in South Africa is heartbreaking and unacceptable. Reports indicate that thousands of people have been stranded for days, sleeping outside in cold and rainy weather while waiting for buses that were promised but have arrived in insufficient numbers.

Among those stranded are pregnant women, children, elderly people, and individuals who are ill. Leaving vulnerable people exposed to harsh weather for such a long time is a humanitarian crisis that demands an urgent response.

It is deeply disappointing that those affected have been left to endure these conditions while waiting for assistance. Promises without timely action only increase the suffering of people who are already facing uncertainty and hardship.

Every government has a responsibility to protect the dignity and welfare of its people. Zimbabwean citizens deserve safe and organised transportation, proper shelter, access to healthcare where needed, and clear communication during times of crisis. No one should be left abandoned in the open for days.

As a Zimbabwean, I believe our leaders should focus on protecting citizens and addressing humanitarian emergencies rather than prioritising political celebrations such as Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB 3). Celebrating perceived political achievements while vulnerable Zimbabweans continue to suffer reflects misplaced priorities and a failure of compassionate leadership.

Human rights are not optional. Every Zimbabwean deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and humanity. I call on all responsible authorities to act urgently, honour their commitments, and ensure that no Zimbabwean is left to suffer in such inhumane conditions again.

About the author
Chiedza Kambari is a human rights activist based in the United Kingdom. She is the Deputy Organising Secretary of the Midlands Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe.  She can be contacted by email at kambarichiedza@gmail.com OR at Chiedza.kambari@rohr-zimbabwe.org