Story by Panashe Nagoli
ZIMBABWEANS from all walks of life are taking centre stage in shaping national legislation as public consultations on the Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 kicked off. The bill, gazetted by the Speaker of Parliament on February 16, is undergoing scrutiny in a process designed to ensure citizens’ voices guide lawmaking.
Speaking to ZBC News, Public Governance expert Dr Tawanda Zinyama highlighted the critical role of public consultations in reinforcing participatory democracy.
“The ninety days from gazetting form the bedrock of the bill and is a Constitutional requirement according to Section 328. This provides a platform for the bill to be about the people, not the political elite. Those for and against the bill should come out in their numbers and express their views,” Dr Zinyama said.
He added that consultations, which will span three days, allow the public to assess the proposed law clause by clause.
“A lot has been said on social media about the bill. This is a chance for the people, as the owners of the bill, to come out and look at the proposed law in detail, weighing its benefits. It is a proposal the masses must custom-make into something that works best for them,” he said.
One recurring question is whether a national referendum is necessary. Dr Zinyama explained that the bill does not amend sections of the Constitution that legally require a referendum.
“This issue is very clear; there is no need for a referendum because this bill does not seek to amend sections of the Constitution that actually require one. This is not a new term; it is an extension of the election cycle. Of the twenty-two clauses in the bill, not one triggers a referendum. The public is being given a chance at participatory democracy during the consultation,” he said.
Parliament has designated 65 venues across Zimbabwe’s 10 provinces to ensure broad public engagement.
With day one concluded, all eyes are on April 2, when the nation will assess the general consensus and sentiment on Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3.
