President Mnangagwa to Unveil Legislative Agenda as Zimbabwe’s Parliament Convenes

By: Enia Dube

The President of Zimbabwe Emmerson Mnangagwa is poised to deliver his highly anticipated State of the Nation Address (SONA), today (01/10/24), marking the official opening of the second session of the 10th Parliament. The address, is scheduled for 2 p.m at the new Parliament building in Mt. Hampden, and will outline the legislative agenda for the incoming session.

According to Clerk of Parliament Kennedy Chokuda, President Mnangagwa will address a joint sitting of the Senate and National Assembly, highlighting key bills to be carried over from the previous session. These include the Parks and Wildlife Amendment Bill, Death Penalty Abolition Bill, and Mines and Minerals Bill.

Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Ziyambi Ziyambi, emphasized the importance of these bills, noting that they are crucial for Zimbabwe’s development. The government is committed to ensuring their swift passage.
 

The business community eagerly awaits President Mnangagwa’s address, hoping for policies that will stimulate economic growth. Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce President, Tamuka Chidyausiku, expressed optimism that the President will announce measures to improve the business environment and attract foreign investment.
 

Civil society organizations also expect progress on social issues. Zimbabwe Human Rights Association Executive Director, Dzikamai Bere, urged the President to address the welfare of vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, and outline concrete steps to improve their lives.
 

On last year’s SONA ,the President outlined the government’s legislative agenda for the Tenth Parliament of Zimbabwe. The address focused on several key areas, including bills left uncompleted by the Ninth Parliament, such as the Mines and Minerals Bill, Public Finance Management Amendment Bill, Medical Services Amendment Bill, Insurance Bill and Private Voluntary Organisations Amendment Bill.

The President also introduced new legislative business, including the Repeal of Laws (General) Amendment Bill, which aims to repeal four obsolete Acts: the Frederick Clayton Trust Act, Service of Documents (Telegraph) Act, Settled Estates Leasing Act and War Marriages Validation Act. 

As Zimbabweans await President Mnangagwa’s State of the Nation Address, expectations are high for a comprehensive outline of the legislative agenda and concrete steps to address the country’s economic and social challenges.