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This article participates on the following special index pages:
New Constitution-making process - Index of articles
Constitution bulletin day 12 and 13
Zimbabwe
Human Rights Association (ZimRights)
July 05, 2010
As the outreach programme
continues, reports suggest that lack of consistency in participation
characterises the constitution public consultations.
It is reported that the
atmosphere in Mashonaland West remains tense as a few people have
been nominated by their political party to continue at COPAC meetings
on behalf of the rest of the communities. The story is not, however,
the same for the people of Gwanda in Matebeleland south who are
not only coming out in large numbers to the meetings but are also
participating on individual capacity.
An average of 300 people
attended meetings, which were held in Chihwiti, Hombwe and Shumhare
wards of Mashonaland west on Saturday 04 July. Although there were
large turnouts only a few people were participating during the consultations.
It is alleged that of the few who were participating most a members
of the Central Intelligence Office (CIO). These allegations of intimidation
have also been cited by a recent Combined Harare Residents Association
(CHRA) report that outreach meetings are being monitored by state
agents resulting in resident's low participation.
Intimidation seems to
be continuing in Zvimba where an outreach team will be operating
for two days. On Sunday some CIOs are reported to have been dropped
off at one of the meeting places in the area.
Meanwhile a lot of input
was recorded in Garanyemba, Gwanda in Matebeleland south where residents
highlighted their dissatisfaction in the special treatment war veterans
continue to receive. This, they say is unfair as everyone participated
during the war, although some roles are not being recognized. The
people also suggested that all regions within the country support
the idea of devolution of power. In addition they said Parliamentarians
should be given the task to nominate the Attorney General from applications
submitted by prospective candidates. The majority of the participants
were still in support of the dearth penalty. Participants also agreed
that traditional leaders should remain non-partisan when carrying
out their duties.
ZimRights supports the
patriotic attitude exhibited at the Garanyemba meeting through the
active and effective participation. Participating in the constitution
making process helps in laying a foundation for Zimbabwe. The strength
of this foundation depends on the people's participation.
Visit the Zimbabwe
Human Rights Association (ZimRights) fact
sheet
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