Saturday, March 23, 2013

Will Zimbabwe's Constitutional Referendum Prevent Another Mugabe?

Last week in Zimbabwe was the much needed constitutional referendum, as political leaders have expressed a desire to limit presidential powers in the country. Spearheading the constitution is Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai, a key leader in the opposition of Robert Mugabe. The referendum addressed much needed issues, particularly pertaining to government powers. Now there is a clearly defined separation of judicial and presidential powers, as well as term limits, a clause granting the president only what has been included in the constitution, and prevention of the president from appointing whomever he choses to office. Proponents like Freedomhouse.org say that this is a crucial step towards democracy in Zimbabwe, while detractors say that low voter turnout deter the credibility of the bill. Only time will tell if the new constitution truly helps the fragile country turn itself around.

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