The reasons put forward by Zanu (PF) supporters for seeking to stop the drafting process are baffling. They argue that, from a ‘leaked’ version of the draft, they do not agree with the contents because they do not reflect the views of the people. They also argue that the drafters are coming up with their own views unrelated to the wishes of ordinary Zimbabweans and that the views of Zanu (PF) supporters are not reflected. Therefore constitutional reform must be set aside, COPAC must be dissolved and the inclusive government ended to make way for fresh elections.
Firstly, the three experienced and professional drafters are Zanu (PF) nominees agreed to by the main political parties involved. Surely they deserve to be left to do what they know best without political interference. Secondly, the process has a clear provision for ordinary Zimbabweans to give their input at the stage of the referendum.
Perhaps these ridiculous attempts to stop the drafting of the constitution are driven by fear that the Supreme Law in the making will seek justice for past human rights abuses. That fear is well-founded because any serious constitution must surely provide a framework to address past injustices and abuses. Those implicated in these abuses must know that justice will soon prevail.
Another hidden agenda could be to render the inclusive government totally dysfunctional and so provide an excuse for early elections in the absence of critical reforms. This is made worse by SADC leaders who are taking their time to appoint Troika representatives to work directly with the Joint Monitoring and Implementation Committee in monitoring the full implementation of the GPA. SADC should be closely monitoring the constitutional reform process in order to expose any machinations or attempts to stop the process in favour of sham elections. – Dewa Mavhinga, Regional Coordinator, Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition
Post published in: Politics