Justice Ministry launches constitutional literacy campaign 

Source: Justice Ministry launches constitutional literacy campaign – herald

Ivan Zhakata in GURUVE

The Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs has rolled out a constitutional awareness campaign in Guruve as part of a national drive to deepen public understanding of Zimbabwe’s 2013 Charter and foster a culture of constitutionalism across communities.

Deputy Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Norbert Mazungunye, who led the district outreach, said the 2013 Constitution represented a shift from the colonial era Lancaster House Constitution as it was developed through extensive public consultations and adopted through a national referendum.

“The coming into force of the Constitution on May 22, 2013, was a historic moment that consolidated the democratic gains achieved through the liberation struggle,” he said.

“Unlike the Lancaster House Constitution, which excluded broad public participation, the 2013 Constitution was crafted by the people and for the people. It reflects Zimbabwean values and aspirations.”

Deputy Minister Mazungunye said the Constitution must not remain confined to legal circles or Government offices, but should be widely accessible and understood at grassroots level.

“Our Constitution is not just a legal document, it is a mirror of the national soul. But it only becomes meaningful when people understand and live by it.

“Section 7 obligates the State to translate and disseminate the Constitution in all 16 official languages. That is what this campaign is about, taking the Constitution to the people.”

He urged citizens to actively engage with the document to enhance their civic participation and political awareness.

“I have tried my best to summarise the Constitution, but I encourage each and every Zimbabwean to take note of this document and appreciate its provisions,” said Deputy Minister Mazungunye.

“I have no doubt that my Ministry’s interface with you will help promote your sense of ownership of the Constitution. Your participation in civic, political and electoral processes will be enhanced if you embed yourselves in the provisions of the supreme law of our country.

“Your ability to analyse, evaluate, take, and defend positions on public issues will be sharpened and will facilitate constructive constitutional debate among citizens.”

Acting provincial coordination director Mr Admore Shereni, who represented the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Mashonaland Central Province Christopher Magomo, welcomed the initiative and said it would strengthen democratic values at community level.

“Peace is the bedrock of democracy, and the Constitution is the framework that sustains it,” he said.

“This programme highlights shared responsibility among government, traditional leaders, civil society and citizens to uphold the rule of law.”

Zanu PF Member of Parliament for Guruve North Cde Tendai Pinduka praised the outreach and described the Constitution as a foundational national document.

“We refer to it as the Bible of our nation. Every citizen; urban or rural must read and understand it,” Cde Pinduka said.

“President Mnangagwa has declared himself a constitutionalist, and that is why this initiative is important. It empowers people to know their rights and hold institutions accountable.”

Traditional leader Chief Chipuriro of Guruve, born Clever Masviki, called for the increased distribution of translated versions of the Constitution in rural communities.

“Many villagers have never seen or read the Constitution, and that is a major gap,” said Chief Chipuriro.

“We need simplified versions in local languages and more outreach like this to empower people with knowledge of their rights and responsibilities.”

The outreach programme attracted participants from women’s groups, youth organisations, civil society, people with disabilities and local leaders.

It formed part of a wider Government effort to entrench constitutional literacy, strengthen democratic participation and build a more legally informed citizenry.