The Zimbabwe Constitutional Movement (ZICOMO) has criticised comments attributed to Virginia Mabhiza regarding Cabinet collective responsibility, arguing that constitutional rights should not be subordinated to political loyalty.
In a statement dated May 5, 2026, the organisation expressed concern over reports that the Attorney General warned ministers and vice presidents against publicly opposing Cabinet decisions.
ZICOMO acknowledged Mabhiza’s constitutional role as the government’s principal legal adviser but accused her office of applying constitutional principles selectively.
The group argued that while Section 106(3) of Zimbabwe’s Constitution requires Cabinet members to uphold collective responsibility once decisions have been made, this obligation does not remove the right of ministers or vice presidents to resign if they fundamentally disagree with those decisions.
According to the statement, suppressing dissent risks reducing Cabinet governance to “enforced unanimity” rather than meaningful democratic deliberation.
ZICOMO further pointed to Section 2 of the Constitution, which establishes constitutional supremacy, and Section 61, which guarantees freedom of expression.
The organisation warned that any interpretation suggesting public disagreement is entirely prohibited could undermine constitutional protections.
The statement also broadened its criticism to wider governance issues, including alleged political interference in state institutions, economic inequality, and concerns over constitutional reform efforts linked to Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3).
The organisation accused authorities of marginalising citizens who oppose the amendment process and described the proposed changes as part of a broader struggle over political power.
In addition, ZICOMO questioned the transparency and accountability of public institutions, referencing concerns about the judiciary, electoral processes, and disparities between ordinary citizens and politically connected elites.
The group called on Parliament to strengthen its oversight role under Section 119 of the Constitution and urged Cabinet members to prioritise their constitutional obligations over political solidarity.
It also reaffirmed its opposition to CAB3, insisting that Zimbabwe’s future should be grounded in constitutionalism, free elections, and the rule of law.
The statement concluded with a broader appeal to Zimbabweans to remain vigilant in defending democratic principles and national sovereignty.
Zimbabwe has been plunged into political turmoil over attempts by President Emmerson Mnangagwa to subvert the constitution and extend his term in office from 2028 to 2030.
The Zanu PF leader is seeking to amend the constitution without subjecting the changes to a referendum as is required by law.
Its widely believed Vice President Constantino Chiwenga leads a faction of the party heavily backed by the military who are opposed to plans to amend the constitution.
