Zanu-PF takes indefinite break from Zim constitution making

Zimbabwe's constitution making process has taken a new twist with Zanu-PF telling COPAC that it would no longer take part in any meetings.

The three co-chairpersons were due to hold a crucial meeting on Tuesday in Harare to thrash out outstanding issues that have threaten to collapse the process.

However, Zanu PF has advised COPAC that "it was talking a break in constitution matters."

"We got a note from  Zanu-PF that they have with immediate effect stopped attending any constitution meetings.  They said they won't show up until further notice," said COPAC sources.

Zanu-PF is said to be consulting on "parked issues."

COPAC co-chairperson Douglas Mwonzora told civil society organisations in Bulawayo that the draft is now complete but there are still parked issues.

"Devolution is  included but its form is stalling everything. The other issue is on how many provinces   should be there. Some want 5 others 8 provinces," he said.

President Mugabe has repeatedly said he want to go for elections this year with our without a new constitutions as the current one could be easy used to run elections.

Mugabe has said he will not accept a constitution which proposes a weakened executive presidency, devolution and dual citizenship.

The draft constitution shows that the country will remain with the powerful executive President post and two Vice Presidents but the prime minister post would be scrapped.

The President will have a maximum of two five year terms and must be at least 40 years of age. There is no maximum age limit of the age of the Presidential candidate or a clause that prevents a former president to run again.