Citizens Turn Out in Numbers for Constitutional Amendment Consultations

Public hearings on the Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill began on Monday with significant public participation, as citizens gathered in large numbers at consultation centres across Zimbabwe to share their views on the proposed changes.

At the Chitungwiza Aquatic Complex, attendance exceeded expectations, with the venue filled to capacity as hundreds of residents turned up, reflecting growing national interest in the amendment process.

The outreach programme allows members of the public to present oral submissions and written opinions before the proposed legislation is formally introduced for debate in the National Assembly.

Several participants welcomed the initiative, saying it created an important platform for citizens to contribute to national decision-making, with many expressing support for the proposed reforms.

“We appreciate being given the chance to express our opinions on this bill, which I personally support,” said one attendee.

Another participant described the proposal as beneficial to national progress, while a third suggested the amendments could help shift focus towards development by reducing disruptions often linked to election cycles.

Chairperson of the Public Hearings Team, Senator Eleven Kambizi, said the consultations had started successfully, citing strong turnout at the opening sessions.

“The response has been overwhelming. The venue was filled, and people actively participated by sharing their views. This exercise is taking place across the country and will conclude on Thursday, May 2. All submissions will be compiled and forwarded accordingly,” he said.

Key proposals contained in the amendment include extending presidential and parliamentary terms from five years to seven years, as well as introducing a parliamentary mechanism for the election of the president.

Public consultations are set to continue nationwide, with authorities expected to consolidate citizens’ contributions before the Bill proceeds to the next stage of the legislative process.