Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
Zimbabwe Citizens Forum (ZCF) has backed the proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill and said its provisions were designed to strengthen governance, improve efficiency in public institutions and enhance access to justice.
Addressing journalists in Harare today, ZCF national coordinator Cde Taurai Kandishaya, said the Bill addresses structural gaps in key State institutions while promoting effective service delivery.
Cde Kandishaya said provisions to merge the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission and the Zimbabwe Gender Commission would eliminate duplication and expedite the handling of complaints.
“Currently, rights complaints are handled by separate commissions, which create delays and inefficient use of resources,” he said.
“By integrating the two institutions, cases will be handled more efficiently, while ensuring gender issues are addressed within the broader framework of human rights.”
Cde Kandishaya also welcomed the proposal to raise the qualifications of the Attorney-General to the level required for appointment as a Supreme Court judge.
“The Attorney-General advises on complex legal matters involving legislation, treaties and governance,” he said.
“Raising the qualifications ensures that the office is held by an individual with the highest level of expertise.”
On judicial reforms, Cde Kandishaya said expanding access to the Constitutional Court would enable individuals and civil society organisations to bring matters of public importance before the highest court.
“The current system can be costly and complex. This reform ensures that more citizens can approach the court when their rights or community interests are affected,” he said.
Cde Kandishaya said the proposed extension of presidential terms from five to seven years would promote policy continuity and allow the Government to complete long-term development projects.
“Short electoral cycles often disrupt implementation. Extending the term provides stability and enables the Government to see projects through to completion,” he said.
Cde Kandishaya also supported the dissolution of the National Peace and Reconciliation Commission and said it had fulfilled its mandate and that resources should be redirected to priority sectors.
“Maintaining institutions beyond their purpose places unnecessary strain on public resources. Those funds can be channelled towards health, education and infrastructure development,” he said.
On traditional leadership, Cde Kandishaya said restoring political rights to chiefs, headmen and village heads would strengthen grassroots representation.
“This ensures that local knowledge informs national policy and that rural communities have a stronger voice in governance,” he said.
Turning to electoral reforms, Cde Kandishaya said integrating voter registration with the national identity system would address challenges that have seen some voters turned away at polling stations.
“This reform ensures that eligible citizens are automatically registered, reducing administrative errors and improving participation,” he said.
Cde Kandishaya also backed the proposal for Parliament to elect the President, saying it would reduce disputes associated with direct elections.
“This approach promotes inclusivity and allows elected representatives to determine leadership transparently,” he said.
Cde Kandishaya said the introduction of additional Senators with specialised expertise would improve the quality of legislation, while the establishment of a dedicated Delimitation Commission would ensure accurate and fair constituency boundaries.
He said the proposed reforms, if adopted, would contribute to a more efficient, inclusive and responsive governance framework.
