Tshabangu Proposes Constitutional Changes to Eliminate By-Elections

Sengezo Tshabangu has launched a push to amend the Constitution to abolish by-elections, arguing that political parties should unilaterally replace recalled or deceased legislators. This proposal coincides with the broader Constitutional Amendment Bill (No. 3) debate, fueling fears of further parliamentary recalls and the consolidation of party-controlled power. Critics warn that removing the electorate's role in filling vacancies effectively disenfranchises voters and cements the influence of party elites over legislative representation. The move signals a deepening shift toward centralized political control, bypassing traditional democratic accountability mechanisms. [iHarare News]