The proposed legislation aims to adjust the nation's electoral framework, which would extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa's term to 2030.
A major feature of the bill is the proposal to change both presidential and legislative terms from five to seven years. Furthermore, CAB3 suggests transitioning from a direct popular vote for the presidency to a system where parliament is given the power to elect the president.
The cabinet officially approved the move to amend the constitution in February. According to a cabinet statement, these amendments are designed to "enhance political stability and policy continuity to allow development programmes to be implemented to completion".
To collect people's views on the proposed changes, parliament recently hosted four days of public hearings at venues across Zimbabwe. During these sessions, supporters of the bill highlighted the benefits of giving the president more time to finish major national infrastructure projects. Citizens attending the hearings noted that a seven-year term would provide ample time to complete initiatives such as the Trablablas Interchange, the new parliament building, and the Masvingo Road to BeitBridge highway, alongside the creation of dams and jobs.
Another strong argument raised by supporters during the consultations is that allowing parliamentarians to elect the president could help reduce incidents of political violence that are often associated with direct presidential elections.
While the consultations saw support for the development and stability goals, the proposed changes have also generated discussion among ordinary citizens and civic organizations. Some citizens expressed concerns that Members of Parliament might not fully relate to the people's woes once they are in parliament receiving cars and allowances, arguing they should not vote on the public's behalf. Additionally, questions were raised regarding the scheduling of the hearings, with some asking why they took place during the week when most people are at work.
Following the conclusion of the public hearings, the government's plan is for the bill to go before parliament. A vote in parliament, where the ruling Zanu-PF party holds a firm majority, will determine if the legislation passes.