Lately, Mugabe has maintained that his party will change provisions enshrined in the draft constitution, which reduce his powers, once he wins the polls. Speaking to ZBC TV on the eve of his 89th birthday, Mugabe said that after the referendum, Matinenga would no longer be involved in the constitution processes, adding Justice Minister Patrick Chinamasa would be tasked to lead.
According to the draft document, expected to be passed on March 16, the president will be compelled to consult Parliament in making key national decisions such as declaring war and sending troops on international exercises. Presidential terms will also be limited to two while service chiefs and top government employees will have their appointments endorsed by parliament.
In an interview on the sidelines of a constitution advocacy meeting held at Midlands State University over the weekend, Matinenga said it would be difficult for any incumbent to change key provisions of the document or retain excessive presidential powers.
He added that traditional chiefs and state security officials who have been accused of being partisan and siding with Mugabe will be prosecuted after the new constitution has been passed.
Post published in: News