Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi Bunks Constitutional Amendment Bill Debate ? – Eduzim News

Tinashe Sambiri– The scheduled debate on the Constitutional Amendment Bill at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair on Wednesday failed to take place after Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi did not attend the session, with organisers reportedly cancelling the discussion altogether.

The absence of the Justice Minister, who was expected to engage in a high-level public debate on the proposed constitutional changes, sparked disappointment among attendees who had anticipated a robust exchange on one of the country’s most contested political issues.

The event was expected to feature prominent legal and political voices, including constitutional law expert Professor Lovemore Madhuku and activist Linda Masarira.

Speaking in an interview with Techmag TV at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair ahead of the cancelled debate, Madhuku reiterated his firm opposition to the proposed amendments, making it clear his position remained unchanged.

“My position has not changed I am saying no to the Constitutional Amendment Bill, no to the extension of the President’s term of office, no to the extension of MPs terms and whoever elected. This bill seeks to rob citizens of the right to participate in democratic processes,” said Madhuku.

He added: “For this reason I will not change my position.”

His remarks underscored the growing resistance from sections of civil society and legal experts who argue the proposed reforms could undermine democratic participation.

Madhuku also clarified his stance ahead of what was expected to be a national-level debate on Constitutional Amendment Bill Number 3, insisting he would not shift his position despite ongoing political pressure.

With the Justice Minister absent and the discussion ultimately shelved, questions have been raised over the government’s engagement with public debate on constitutional reform, as tensions around the proposed amendments continue to simmer.

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