Ivan Zhakata in Mberengwa
GOVERNMENT is taking constitutional awareness programmes to communities across the country to improve citizens’ understanding of their rights and responsibilities as part of efforts to achieve access to justice for all by 2030.
Speaking at a Constitutional Awareness Campaign in Mberengwa yesterday, Deputy Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Advocate Nobert Mazungunye, said an informed citizenry was essential for promoting constitutionalism, respect for the rule of law and responsible participation in national affairs.
He said the campaign was designed to familiarise communities with the Constitution and its provisions, including safeguards protecting the fundamental rights of persons with disabilities.
“The purpose of this gathering is to promote public awareness of the Constitution of Zimbabwe and ensure that citizens understand their constitutional rights,” said Adv Mazungunye.
He said the Constitution was the supreme law of the country, providing the framework for governance, defining the powers and responsibilities of the State, and guaranteeing fundamental rights and freedoms.
However, he said awareness of constitutional rights should go hand in hand with respect for the rights of others, obedience to the law and the use of lawful channels to resolve disputes.
To broaden the reach of the programme, the ministry is conducting community meetings, public education programmes, exhibitions and radio broadcasts, while also distributing constitutional materials.
Adv Mazungunye said the interventions were intended to ensure that constitutional knowledge reached people regardless of their geographical location, educational background or social circumstances.
He called on traditional leaders, community leaders, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to complement Government efforts by promoting constitutional awareness within their respective communities.
Mberengwa District Development Coordinator Mr Arnold Magaya said promoting constitutional awareness was a collective responsibility requiring the involvement of Government institutions, local authorities, traditional leaders, political parties, civil society organisations, and youth and women’s groups.
“The responsibility of promoting public awareness of the Constitution does not rest with the Ministry of Justice alone. This is a shared responsibility that requires the active participation of all stakeholders,” he said.
Mr Magaya said the campaign provided a platform for communities to exchange knowledge and engage on constitutional matters, enabling citizens to better understand their rights, freedoms and responsibilities.
He commended the ministry for taking constitutional education to communities and urged participants to share the knowledge they had gained with others.
