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Taking the constitutional debate to the people - Munyuki shopping Centre, Epworth
Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition
August 12, 2009

On Tuesday 11 August 2009, Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition held a community outreach meeting at Munyuki Shopping Centre, Epworth under the theme 'Speak out, Taurai, Khulumani.' The meeting was aimed at providing a platform for residents of Epworth to discuss the constitutional making process in Zimbabwe.

Issues raised:

On process

• There is need for government and civic society organizations to conduct extensive civic education on the constitution making process as most Zimbabwean have little knowledge on constitutional matters
• Provisions should be put in place to ensure that contents of the proposed constitution are not altered particularly by the president
• The Kariba draft should not be used as a reference point as its drafting was non-inclusive

On content

1. Separation of powers

• Separation of power should be clear especially with regards to the judiciary which has become highly politicized over the years

2. Citizenship and Bill of Rights

• Registration of children by their guardians should be allowed .the current constitution states that children cannot obtain a passport or identity card in absence of his/her father
• The rights to clean water ,electricity and shelter should be enshrined in the constitution
• The constitution should explicitly guarantee property rights for all Zimbabweans
• Citizens should be protected against politically motivated violence and perpetrators of such must be given heavy penalties
• The constitution should guarantee basic freedoms particularly the freedom of expression
• Government should provide free education to children at least during elementary stages. at tertiary level ,all students must have access to grants
• Access to health must be made right. government should ensure that maternity fees, medicines and equipment are affordable and accessible to all Zimbabweans

3. Women and gender issues

• Spouses should be allowed to acquire death certificates

4. Youths, land, natural resources and empowerment

• The age of majority should clearly be defined and measures put in place to ensure that youths who reach 18 years remain respectful of and obedient to their parents

5. Elections

• Electoral provisions should clearly speak against intimidation of voters
• An independent electoral commission should administer elections in Zimbabwe
• International observers must be allowed to monitor elections
• Parliamentary candidates should respect the constituencies they live in ensure greater ownership and responsibility

6. Media

• Independent media houses should be allowed to operate without any restrictions as this ensures media diversity

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