HARARE, Mar. 18 (NewsDay Live) – Attorney-General Virginia Mabiza says the planned abolition of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission and its merger into the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission is lawful and will strengthen not weaken rights protection.
The proposal has sparked debate, with the Zanu PF Women’s League urging a rethink over fears it could dilute focus on gender issues.
Mabiza rejected those concerns.
“The legal advice from this office is clear and constitutionally grounded: the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission already protects all human rights, including functions of the Gender Commission,” she said.
“Gender equality and women’s rights are core — not peripheral. The transfer creates no gap or loss of protection.”
She said the reform would streamline oversight and improve efficiency.
“This is a lawful, forward-looking reform that builds a stronger, leaner institution.”
Mabiza added the merger would cut duplication and boost enforcement.
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“It eliminates fragmentation and concentrates limited resources into a single body with greater authority and visibility.”
She, however, said Parliament would scrutinise the proposals.
“Concerns about maintaining a dedicated focus are valid and will be fully examined. Nothing in the Bill is final.”
Mabiza also urged the public to rely on the officially gazetted Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill, published on February 16, 2026, following Cabinet approval.
The Bill proposes changes to sections 92, 95, 143 and 158 of the Constitution, mainly targeting the timing and conduct of national elections.
She said the amendments seek to address structural issues in Zimbabwe’s harmonised electoral cycle, which links the terms of the Presidency, Parliament and local authorities.
