Amendment No.3 Bill goes to the people

Public hearings on Zimbabwe's proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 begin today, marking the start of a four-day nationwide consultation process expected to draw thousands of citizens.

According to Parliament of Zimbabwe, the hearings will run from March 30 to April 2, providing a platform for citizens to express their views on the proposed constitutional changes.

The Bill, which was gazetted on February 17, is currently undergoing a mandatory 90-day public consultation period before it can be tabled for debate in Parliament. The legislative process is guided by constitutional provisions requiring public input before any amendments are considered.

In a statement, Parliament said the hearings are aimed at promoting participatory democracy.

"A Constitutional Bill may not be presented in the Senate or the National Assembly unless the Speaker has given at least 90 days' notice in the Gazette of the precise terms of the Bill," reads part of the statement.

"Immediately after such notice, Parliament must invite members of the public to express their views through public meetings and written submissions."

To facilitate participation, special desks have been set up at consultation venues, while a submission box has also been placed at the old Parliament building in Harare.

The hearings are being conducted across all provinces, with sessions scheduled in major urban centres and rural districts. In Harare, consultations will begin today at Chitungwiza Aquatic Centre, before moving to Epworth Local Board and the city centre tomorrow.

Other provinces, including Bulawayo, Midlands, Masvingo, Manicaland, and Mashonaland regions, will host similar engagements at designated community halls, schools and council offices.

Once the hearings conclude, Parliamentary Portfolio Committees will compile reports based on public submissions before the Bill is formally introduced in the National Assembly.

The proposed amendment contains several significant provisions, including changes to the electoral framework. Among them is a proposal to extend the presidential term from five to seven years and to introduce a Parliamentary process for electing the President, replacing the current direct vote system.

The Bill has already generated strong political interest. The ruling party, ZANU PF, recently concluded nationwide sensitisation campaigns aimed at educating communities on the proposed changes.

In Manicaland, provincial leaders and traditional chiefs have expressed support for the Bill, arguing that it would promote policy continuity and allow development programmes initiated under Emmerson Mnangagwa to be completed.

Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Misheck Mugadza, said extending the electoral cycle would reduce disruptions caused by frequent elections.

"Developing a nation is not an overnight job. A seven-year cycle gives enough time to implement projects without constant political interruptions," he said.

Similarly, in Mashonaland West, traditional leaders and grassroots structures have also endorsed the proposed legislation, citing the need for stability and sustained development.

Supporters argue that the Bill aligns governance with long-term national development strategies, including Vision 2030. However, the public hearings are expected to provide a broader platform for diverse views, including those of critics.

As the consultation process unfolds, the outcome of these hearings is likely to play a critical role in shaping the future of Zimbabwe's constitutional and electoral landscape.