George Charamba Defends Constitutional Amendment Bill 3, Dismisses Opposition Claims
George Charamba has mounted a strong defence of the proposed Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill, describing criticism from opponents as misleading and unfounded.
Speaking during a wide-ranging interview, the presidential spokesperson said the ongoing process is a routine legislative exercise, not a fundamental overhaul of Zimbabwe’s supreme law.
Also Read: Public Hearings on Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3: Putting the Debate Into Perspective
“Amendment, Not Replacement”
Charamba stressed that the proposed changes do not amount to discarding the Constitution, but rather refining specific provisions.
He dismissed claims that the amendment threatens constitutional order, arguing that such assertions are exaggerated and based on misinformation.
According to him, constitutional amendments are a normal part of governance, pointing out that this is the third amendment since the adoption of the 2013 Constitution.
Lessons from History
To reinforce his argument, Charamba traced Zimbabwe’s constitutional evolution, highlighting how governing frameworks have changed over time.
He cited transitions from early colonial legal systems to later constitutional arrangements, noting that adjustments have historically reflected shifting political and social realities.
This, he said, demonstrates that constitutions are not fixed documents but evolve in response to national needs and aspirations.
Public Consultation Underway
Charamba outlined the legislative journey of the amendment, explaining that it originated from grassroots proposals before moving through Cabinet and into Parliament.
The Bill is currently at the public consultation stage, where citizens are being invited to submit their views.
He encouraged Zimbabweans to actively participate in the process, saying Parliament will ultimately decide based on the weight of public input.
Debate Over Presidential Election Method
Among the key proposals in the Bill is a shift in how the President is elected, with suggestions that Parliament, rather than voters, could assume that role.
Charamba rejected claims that this would undermine democratic rights, noting that Zimbabwe previously had a system where the President was not directly elected.
He said the current debate should focus on whether the existing system best serves national interests, rather than being driven by fear or speculation.
Call for Measured Debate
Charamba also dismissed comparisons between the amendment process and historical events such as the Unilateral Declaration of Independence, calling such parallels inappropriate.
He emphasised that the current process follows constitutional procedures, including public hearings and parliamentary oversight.
Process Framed as Democratic
With public hearings ongoing, Charamba described the process as democratic and inclusive, noting that citizens have a defined window to contribute their views.
The consultation period has been extended to allow broader participation, with Parliament expected to consider submissions before making a final decision.
He reiterated that constitutional amendments are a standard feature of governance and should not be a source of unnecessary alarm.
The post George Charamba Defends Constitutional Amendment Bill 3, Dismisses Opposition Claims appeared first on iHarare News.
