HARARE - Information Communication Technology (ICT), Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda A. Mavetera has publicly rejected a controversial provision in the Constitutional Amendment Bill 3 of 2026 that would abolish Zimbabwe’s Gender Commission, a key institution for promoting equality and protecting citizens’ rights.
Her comments come in response to questions from Advocate Fadzayi Mahere, a vocal critic of the ruling party’s proposed constitutional changes. Bill 3 has ignited fierce debate because it would not only abolish the Gender Commission but also extend terms of incumbents such as councillors, MPs and the President to 2030, and potentially shift the election of Presidents from a public vote to selection by Parliament.
Mahere asked:
“The proposed Constitutional Amendment sponsored by @ZANUPF_Official aims to abolish the Gender Commission. Are you on board with this change? Has your party’s women’s league endorsed this proposal? Do you agree with the constitutional amendment in this regard?”
In her detailed response, Mavetera said she spoke in her personal capacity and stressed she does not support the clause that would remove the Gender COMMISSION. She said:
“Personally, I am not on board with the clause proposing to abolish the Gender Commission but instead I think we should strengthen it more.”
Mavetera described the commission as “a vital watchdog for gender issues that affect all Zimbabweans, both men and women,” and a key advocate for equality.
Mavetera also emphasised that the bill is still a proposal and could change through parliamentary debate and public consultation. Urging Zimbabweans to engage in the consultation process when dates are announced, she said:
“A bill is a proposal; an Act is the approved law.”
Addressing concerns about her own party’s position, Mavetera said the ruling party’s Women’s League, led by Honourable Amai Chinomona, and the Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Honourable Mutsvangwa, do not support the abolition clause and remain committed to gender equality. She said:
“I repeat, No, I do not agree with this specific proposed amendment to abolish the Commission.”
She added that ZANU PF is not failing women, pointing to initiatives such as the Women’s Bank and women’s quotas in Parliament and local government.
Growing Pushback Within Government
Mavetera is among a handful of high‑profile government figures who have publicly objected to parts of Bill 3. Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has also criticised the proposal to remove the public’s right to elect Presidents, arguing it undermines the liberation war principle of “one man/person, one vote.” Sports Minister Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe echoed Chiwenga’s concerns.
The Constitutional Amendment Bill, which has already been gazetted, will undergo 90 days of public consultations before returning to Parliament, where it is expected to pass given ZANU PF’s two‑thirds majority.
Legal Challenges and Wider Debate
Several court cases have already been filed opposing Bill 3, including a challenge by veteran constitutional law expert Professor Lovemore Madhuku. Madhuku was recently assaulted by suspected state security agents in an incident widely condemned as an attempt to intimidate him and stifle legal opposition to the bill.
As the debate intensifies, Mavetera’s stance signals growing unease among some government officials about the breadth of changes proposed in Bill 3, particularly those perceived as weakening democratic institutions and protections.
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