Story by Bruce Chahwanda, Political Editor
POLITICAL analysts say the First Reading of the Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill in Parliament this Tuesday builds on a series of processes that demonstrate Zimbabwe’s commitment to democratic governance and constitutionalism.
Over the past few months, Zimbabweans were afforded an opportunity to submit their views on the Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill, which was gazetted on 16 February this year.
The 90-day public consultation period was characterised by large turnouts at public hearings and more than half a million written submissions.
This Tuesday, the Bill was formally introduced to Parliament through its First Reading by the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Honourable Ziyambi Ziyambi.
Political analysts say the process reflects the Second Republic’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and constitutional procedures.
“This is a high-fidelity signal being presented to the world. It is testimony to the evolving and maturing constitutional and democratic processes that we, as Zimbabweans, collectively adhere to.
“It also demonstrates our commitment to following constitutional procedures and ensuring that Parliament fulfils its oversight and legislative role in the enactment of laws,” said political analyst Mr Elton Ziki.
Another political analyst, Mr Gabriel Chaibva, commended the manner in which the constitutional processes have been conducted.
“We are pleased that the constitutional provisions governing amendments to the Constitution have been followed to the letter.
“Hundreds of thousands of Zimbabweans have contributed their views on the Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill, demonstrating the willingness of our people to actively participate in the democratic processes of their country.
“We are satisfied that the process has proceeded smoothly. It has been a Parliament-driven process, with Parliament overseeing and directing every stage.
“People from all corners of the country have participated in shaping the Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill and have expressed their support for it,” he said.
Now that the Bill has been tabled in Parliament, legislators are expected to scrutinise and debate its 22 clauses during the subsequent stages of the legislative process.
Each clause will be subjected to parliamentary debate and examination to ensure that any amendments ultimately adopted are aligned with the aspirations of the Zimbabwean people.
