Press Release - BPRA Supports WOZA’s Devolution Protests

Press Release - BPRA Supports WOZA’s Devolution Protests

Bulawayo Progressive Residents Association (BPRA) supports the efforts that Women and Men of Zimbabwe Arise (WOZA) is making towards ensuring that devolution of power is included in the new constitution. The pressure group has been staging demonstrations calling for devolution of power in the wake of the refusal by ZANU PF to include the concept in the new constitution despite the fact that Zimbabweans overwhelmingly demanded it during the constitutional outreach process.

BPRA would like to put it on record that it supports any attempts by any organisation to ensure that devolution of power is included in the new charter. BPRA believes that devolution is the only way to end the marginalization of Matabeleland, Midlands and Manicaland, and empower all provinces in the country to take charge of their destinies by enabling them to assume control of their development. In line with this, the association will not accept any constitution that does not have devolution of power.

The association would like to stress that it is a misconception that devolution of power will divide the country or lead to disintegration of the state. Instead what devolution will do is facilitate the sharing of power among the various spheres and levels of government, allowing people more influence in decision making at the local level and promoting citizen participation in governance. Ultimately, devolution of power will ensure equitable development,  efficiency and effectiveness in the provision of public services, thus improving the livelihoods of Zimbabweans.

Signed

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Mr Emmanuel Ndlovu

Programmes and Advocacy Manager

Bulawayo Progressive Residents Association (BPRA)