MDC gives nod to amendment
The MDC has reached an “understanding” on a constitutional amendment crucial to forming an all inclusive government.
“There’s been some shared understanding on the issue of the constitutional amendment” which will set out the powers of the new prime minister, MDC spokesperson Nelson Chamisa said.
“However other outstanding issues are still to be resolved,” Chamisa,MDC-T-Kuwadzana Central., added.
Amendment at a glance
The individual clauses of the Bill provide as follows: Clause 1 sets out the Bill’s short title, Clause 2 defines a couple of terms for the purpose of this Bill and Clause 3 seeks to substitute Chapter II of the constitution (citizenship) by another making it more comprehensive.
Clause 4 seeks to correct certain cross-references contained in Section 41 of the constitution (which previously cross-referred to members of the House of Assembly only) to make them clearer. For instance, that the “anti-defection” provisions of Section 41(1)(e) apply to elected senators as well as MPs.
Clause 5 seeks to omit from Section 57 (2) of the constitution the incidental reference to the Committee on the Standing Rules and Orders, for which fuller provision is to be made under Clause 6.
Clause 6 seeks to include a new section in the constitution which makes specific provision for the appointment and functions of the Committee on Standing Rules and Orders. For the period during which the inter-party agreements subsist, the composition of this committee will be as specified under sub-clause (2) of this clause.
Clause 7 provides that the appointment by the president of the chairperson of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission must be done in consultation with the Committee on Standing Rules and Orders.
Clause 9 provides for the appointment and functions of a new media commission to be called the Zimbabwe Media Commission.
Clause 10 seeks to amend the interpretation section of the constitution by revising the definition of “Committee on Standing Rules and Orders” in conformity with the amendment made under Clause 6.
Clause 11 and 12 will insert a new section and schedule in the constitution providing for certain transitional amendments in connection with the new and temporary office of Prime Minister.
Posted by Gerald Harper
on November 29, 2008. Filed under Local News.
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