ZIMBABWE’S Catholic Bishops have called for greater public involvement in proposed constitutional changes, warning that any amendments must reflect the will of the people.

In a pastoral message dated March 19, 2026, titled “in defence of truth, justice, and the voice of the people,” the bishops urged president emmerson mnangagwa and lawmakers to prioritise citizen participation in deliberations surrounding constitutional amendment bill number 3.

The church leaders described the 2013 constitution as a “solemn covenant” born from the collective will of the people, warning that it should not be altered without broad consultation. they said proposed changes risk “distancing executive authority from the popular consent of the people” if citizens are not fully involved in the process.

Emphasising the need for inclusive decision-making, the bishops insisted that any far-reaching amendments must be subject to public scrutiny, stating that such changes should be “affirmed by the people” through wide consultation and, where necessary, a referendum.

They warned that bypassing the public on critical national matters would undermine democracy, adding that the constitution “must remain in the hands of every zimbabwean.”

In a direct appeal to lawmakers, the bishops urged them to put national interests first, saying, “history will judge whether you safeguarded their voice or betrayed it.”

They also called on citizens to remain peaceful but active in national processes, emphasising that true authority “flows only from the people.”