Residents in Rushinga have voiced strong support for provisions in the proposed Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Bill that seek to expand Parliament’s authority in electing and overseeing the President, arguing that such changes strengthen representative democracy.
The views emerged during a public hearing held yesterday at Chimhanda Business Centre, where community members debated key clauses of the bill.
Several speakers supported proposals that would allow Parliament to play a greater role in the election of a President in certain circumstances, particularly where it already holds constitutional powers to remove a sitting Head of State.
Tawanda Muchengeti told the hearing that it was logical for Parliament to have both powers.
“Section 97 of the Constitution already gives Parliament the authority to impeach a President elected by millions. It is only proper that the same Parliament be entrusted with the responsibility to elect that President in defined situations. That ensures accountability,” he said.
Another participant, Rudo Chimhanda, said the proposal reinforces the core principles of representative democracy.
“Members of Parliament are elected by the people to represent them, to legislate and to provide oversight over the executive. Giving them the power to elect a President, when necessary, means they are acting on behalf of the citizens who sent them there,” she said.
Elias Muchenje echoed similar sentiments, adding that the amendment would enhance checks and balances within Government.
“Parliament does not just make laws; it must also supervise the executive. If MPs have the mandate to remove a President, then giving them the authority to elect one ensures continuity and strengthens governance systems,” he said.
The clause under discussion in the amendment bill proposes changes to the current constitutional framework governing presidential succession and election in specific scenarios. It builds on existing provisions such as Section 97, which outlines the process for removing a President on grounds including misconduct, failure to uphold the Constitution, or inability to perform duties.
Supporters at the hearing argued that aligning the power to elect and remove a President within the same institution promotes consistency, accountability, and effective oversight.
The Constitution Amendment (No. 3) Bill is currently undergoing nationwide public consultations to gather citizens’ views before it is considered by Parliament.
In Rushinga, the majority sentiment reflected confidence in Parliament as a representative body capable of exercising expanded powers in the national interest.
