Zimbabweans Engage in Public Hearings on Constitutional Amendment Bill

Zimbabweans from diverse backgrounds are actively participating in the country’s law-making process following the launch of nationwide public hearings on the Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3.

The proposed legislation, which was officially gazetted by the Speaker of Parliament on February 16, is now undergoing public examination through consultations aimed at incorporating citizens’ views into the legislative framework.

Public governance specialist Dr Tawanda Zinyama told ZBC News that public consultations are a key pillar of participatory democracy, allowing citizens to directly influence national policy.

“The Constitution provides for a ninety-day period after gazetting, as stipulated under Section 328, during which the public must engage with the bill. This ensures the legislative process reflects the will of the people rather than that of political actors alone. Both supporters and critics should take advantage of this opportunity to share their perspectives,” he said.

Dr Zinyama noted that the three-day consultation exercise enables citizens to carefully examine each provision of the proposed amendment.

“There has been extensive debate on social media regarding the bill, but these consultations offer the public a formal platform to analyse the clauses in detail and evaluate their potential impact. Ultimately, the people must shape the proposal into legislation that serves their interests,” he added.

Addressing concerns about the possibility of a national referendum, Dr Zinyama clarified that the amendment does not target constitutional provisions that legally require one.

“The matter is straightforward. A referendum is unnecessary because none of the clauses in this bill amend sections that demand such a process. The proposal relates to adjustments within the electoral cycle rather than the introduction of a new presidential term. Out of the twenty-two clauses contained in the bill, none triggers a referendum requirement,” he explained.

To promote inclusive participation, Parliament has set up 65 consultation centres across all ten provinces of Zimbabwe, enabling citizens nationwide to contribute to the discussion.

As the first day of hearings concludes, attention now shifts to April 2, when the country is expected to gauge public opinion and overall sentiment surrounding Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3.