By Agencies
WITH just two weeks remaining before the close of public consultations on the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Bill, political analysts say the proposed law does not abolish citizens’ voting rights but seeks to reform Zimbabwe’s governance framework.
The 90-day consultation period, which began after the Bill was gazetted on 16 February, is now nearing its conclusion. Once the process ends, the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs is expected to formally present the Bill in Parliament for its First Reading.
Political scientist, Mr Richard Mahomva said claims that the Bill would eliminate the principle of “one person, one vote” are misplaced.
“It is misguided to apply a political slogan from the 1970s to today’s governance realities. Zimbabweans have called for policy stability and continuity. This Bill does not remove the right to vote, and the voters’ roll will remain in place,” he said.
Mr Mahomva said the proposed amendment should be viewed as part of the evolution of Zimbabwe’s constitutional order.
“When one examines the 21 clauses of this Bill, it becomes clear that it is intended to strengthen, not weaken, the country’s constitutional governance framework,” he said.
Political analyst Dr Matthew Mare said the Bill contains provisions aimed at broadening democratic participation and strengthening governance structures.
“Clause 21, for example, restores the political rights of traditional leaders. It reflects the progressive character of this Bill and its commitment to Pan-Africanism and democratic development,” he said.
Mr Lazarus Sauti said the Bill does not extinguish voting rights, but rather proposes a shift in the method of electing the President.
“The Bill is not removing the principle of one person, one vote. It proposes a transition from direct presidential elections to a parliamentary electoral process overseen by the Chief Justice,” he said.
The Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Bill proposes a range of reforms, including changes to the presidential election system, tenure of elected office, and the structure of key constitutional institutions.
Public hearings and written submissions are part of the constitutional requirement to ensure citizens have an opportunity to express their views before Parliament begins debating the proposed amendments.
-ZBC
