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ZANU PF is open to subjecting the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment No. 3 Bill to a referendum, but maintains that the supreme law does not mandate such a process for these proposed changes.
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Party stance on legality: The party’s Director for Information, Cde Farai Marapira, stated that the consultative process already undertaken is adequate and fully compliant with the Constitution. He emphasized they work within the parameters of the law and do not break it to suit any ends.
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Purpose of amendments: The proposed changes aim to improve institutional effectiveness, strengthen Presidential accountability mechanisms, enhance institutional efficiency, reduce constitutional ambiguities, and align with Vision 2030 for rapid development.
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Referendum & court case: Cde Eddison Zvobgo (Jnr) noted the matter is sub judice (before the courts). Parliament’s view is that a referendum is unnecessary because they are extending the electoral cycle, and Parliament’s job is to legislate while courts adjudicate.
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International comparisons for electing President: Zvobgo argued that Parliament electing the President is not unique, citing the UK (Labour Party choosing PM) and the US (Trump losing popular vote but winning via electoral system). Benefits would include reduced election-related costs.
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Criticisms raised: Another panellist, MP Mr. Edwin Mushoriwa, expressed reservations, opposing the transfer of voter registration from ZEC to the Registrar General’s Office and the creation of a separate delimitation entity outside the electoral management body.
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Ongoing debate: The Bill continues to generate interest, with supporters arguing for governance efficiency and critics calling for further consultation and review.
