By Staff Reporter
THE Zimbabwe government has criticized the Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations (ZHCD) grouping for standing on the way against President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s third term bid.
The ZHCD triggered debate this week after a private daily paper published a story in which the clergy denounced calls for Mnangagwa to run for a third term. They argued that the 2013 born National Constitution should not be tempered with as it reflects the sacred will of the people.
The Presidential Spokesperson, George Charamba immediately reacted to the statement by castigating the publication which ran the story.
In yet another twist to the story, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Jenfan Muswere took direct aim at the clergy group, castigating them for attempting to stop Mnangagwa.
He said the politically broad based call to extend the Presidential term of office beyond 2028 remains a rightful and unquestionable obligation for Parliament , the Party of Zimbabwe’s permanent national democratic revolution – Zanu-PF and other legitimate political stakeholders to this matter.
In any case ,Muswere said parliamentarians from cross sectional divide of political parties represent the views and interests of their electorate with their submissions reflecting the aspirations of those who voted the constituencies they were elected to serve.
“The Parliament is not answerable to narrow , sectoral and regime change donor funding antics by a paltry conglomerate of civil society entrepreneurs purporting to represent the views of the Church in Zimbabwe.
“In the same vein , such Western donor organisations need to be reminded that Zanu-PF is a political establishment which delivered freedom of expression and freedonm of religion among other rights we all enjoy today,” Muswere said.
The Information Minister likewise the Zanu-PF led government still ferociously defends freedom of worship for all Zimbabweans most of which are not affiliated to the Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations (ZHCD) outfit.
“However it’s crucial for Zanu-PF’s godly existential values not to be abused by minority entities and individuals bent on misrepresenting the cordial relationship which the state and the church enjoy.
“The proposal to move a motion on the Presidential Term Limit Extension will follow the provisions of the law.It must be emphasized that the Constitution will remain centrifugal throughout this process with no iota of infractions,” added Muswere.
