Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about CDF and the fight to defend Zimbabwe's Constitution.
About CDF
The CDF is a non-partisan civic platform — not a political party — dedicated to defending Zimbabwe's Constitution against legal and extra-legal attacks. It unites all Zimbabweans who believe the Constitution is sacred and must be protected.
No. CDF is not a political party, nor is it affiliated with any political party. It is a non-partisan people's platform that unites the voices of all individuals and organizations who share the view that the Constitution is sacred and must be defended. CDF does not compete with political formations.
All Zimbabwean citizens — churches, business leaders, traditional leaders, war veterans, labor unions, community organizations, informal traders, political party members, and individuals who share CDF's values and vision. By uniting, we become the CDF.
Yes. Everyone who subscribes to CDF's values is welcome, regardless of political affiliation. CDF does not interfere or compete with political formations. It is a loose, yet organized platform enabling like-minded Zimbabweans to speak with one voice.
About CAB3
CAB3 is the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Bill, 2026. Gazetted on 16 February 2026, it proposes seven major changes to the Constitution including abolishing direct presidential elections, extending terms from 5 to 7 years, and dissolving independent oversight commissions.
The Constitution's Section 328 defines changing term lengths as a "term-limit amendment." Section 328(7) says such amendments cannot benefit the person who held office before the change. And Section 328(9) requires that any attempt to remove this protection must go through a national referendum. CAB3 tries to bypass all of this by calling the change an "electoral cycle" adjustment rather than a term-limit amendment — but the substance is the same.
Written submissions to the Clerk of Parliament are due by 17 May 2026. Every Zimbabwean has the right to submit their views. We provide a template and instructions on our Take Action page.
Because Section 328(9) of the Constitution states that any attempt to remove the protections against incumbent-benefiting term-limit amendments (Section 328(7)) must be treated like an amendment to the Declaration of Rights — which requires a national referendum. Parliament alone cannot pass this.
Taking Action
Three immediate actions: (1) Join CDF to strengthen the movement; (2) Submit your written views to Parliament before 17 May 2026; (3) Share information about CAB3 on WhatsApp and social media so every Zimbabwean understands what's at stake.
Defending the Constitution is not a crime. CDF operates as a lawful civic platform and all its activities are peaceful, non-violent, and within the law. However, the government has used intimidation tactics against opposition — which is why international organizations like Human Rights Watch are monitoring the situation. CDF takes the safety of its supporters seriously.
The Constitution is the ultimate governing document of Zimbabwe. It carries the aspirations of the people. It establishes governance frameworks, protects individual rights, promotes accountability through checks and balances, ensures stability and predictability, and reflects the people's will. Valuing the Constitution promotes good governance, respect for human rights, and national development.