Zimbabwe’s Constitutional Controversy: The Debate behind Drafting a New Constitution

Central to Zimbabwe’s Global Political Agreement is the adoption of a new national constitution based on democratic values and principles that will pave the way for fresh elections.  The reform process took center stage last week at the first All Stakeholders Conference on the Constitution, but clashes between ZANU-PF and MDC supporters disrupted the event.  In addition, a number of key civic organizations have chosen to boycott the parliament-led process because they do not believe it will produce a legitimate outcome.  This coalition led by the National Constitutional Assembly will launch a parallel reform initiative Monday, July 27. 

Participants from Johannesburg, South Africa, via video conference link:

Douglas Mwonzora, Member of Parliament (MDC-T), Co-Chairperson of the Parliamentary Select Committee

Gideon Shoko, Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions, 2nd Deputy Secretary General

Otto Saki, Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR)

McDonald Lewanika, Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition, National Coordinator

Emilia Muchawa, Zimbabwe Women Lawyers Association, Chairperson

Moderator: Thomas O. Melia, Freedom House, Deputy Executive Director