Zimbabwe’s proposed constitutional reform has entered a decisive phase. Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi is set to present the bill before Parliament following a series of public consultations that concluded on May 18.
Published in the Official Gazette on February 16 and subsequently approved by the government, the draft legislation has become one of the most debated political issues in the country. Its parliamentary review is being closely watched by political parties, the business community, and civil society organizations.
According to Ziyambi Ziyambi, the second reading of the bill could take place as early as Wednesday, paving the way for an in-depth debate among lawmakers after the presentation of the parliamentary committees’ findings.
Among the most controversial provisions is the extension of presidential and parliamentary terms, which would increase from five to seven years. The bill also proposes transferring the powers of the Gender Commission to the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission.
Another major change is the repeal of Article 281(2) of the Constitution, a provision that currently prohibits traditional chiefs from participating in partisan political activities.
The government is seeking to fast-track the adoption of the reform and hopes to complete the entire legislative process before the end of June. Authorities believe that a swift adoption will allow the country to focus on other national priorities.