Story by Bruce Chahwanda, Political Editor
A REFERENDUM does not usurp the authority of Parliament, but rather provides a popular basis for legislative action, Deputy Chief Secretary for Presidential Communications, Mr George Charamba, has said, providing clarity to the ongoing process around Constitutional Amendment Number 3 Bill.
Addressing concerns over the proposed changes, Mr Charamba dismissed claims that the amendment undermines democratic processes, stressing that Parliament remains the constitutionally mandated body to effect any legal changes.
“What that means is that a referendum does not usurp the power of Parliament, the body which is recognised as responsible for any changes is Parliament,” he said.
He added: “You can’t place the referendum in apposition to Parliament, it is Parliament which is mandated to do so in terms of our law.”
Mr Charamba described criticism of the amendment as disinformation, emphasising that the process is a routine Constitutional exercise rather than a fundamental overhaul.
“We are amending the Constitution, we are not changing or throwing away the current Constitution, this is a mere amendment,” he said.
He further dismissed claims that the Constitution is being undermined, clarifying that Constitutional changes are a normal feature of governance.
“Constitutions are not immutable, they are made by people and they are meant for the people,” he said, adding that Zimbabwe’s constitutional history reflects multiple changes in response to evolving national needs.
Mr Charamba outlined the legislative process, noting that the amendment originated from grassroots structures before being adopted into Government’s legislative agenda.
“Parliament has invited members of the public to air their views, whether for or against, and ultimately Parliament will have to glean through all those submissions,” he said.
“That is what we are all waiting for, and that is democratic.”
On concerns over potential changes to the election of the President, Mr Charamba said the issue should be subjected to public debate rather than speculation.
“Let’s wait for the consultation process, let the majority prevail and then we proceed accordingly,” he said.
He also argued that Zimbabwe’s current Constitutional framework has evolved over time, including shifts in how the presidency is structured.
“There is nothing unusual about what is happening, it is an aspect of it which is being amended and not the first one and not even the last one,” he said.
The Constitutional Amendment Number 3 Bill is currently at the public consultation stage, with Parliament expected to consider submissions before making a final determination.
