COPAC

Founding principles are those values that citizens commit themselves to their adherence. They are the both the soul and the spine of the constitution and they reflect the manner in which the people desire to be governed.

Talking Points/Key Questions

a) Should the founding principles recognize the need to address the historical imbalances in the ownership and utilization of land and natural resources?

b) Should the founding principles of the constitution recognize the irreversibility of the process of land reform having regard to the vision of the liberation struggle and the provisions of the GPA?

c) Should the founding principles recognize and celebrate the struggle of the first Chimurenga, second Chimurenga and the struggle for democracy and the rule of law by Zimbabwean men and women?

d) Should the founding principles of the constitution acknowledge diversity of religion?

e) Should the constitution recognize matters like non racialism, good governance, gender equality, non tribalism, non discrimination, equal treatment before the law, accountability, adherence to the rule of law, peace and tranquillity?

f) Should the constitution be the supreme law of Zimbabwe?

g) Should the founding principles of the constitution recognize our cultural diversity, traditions and customs and their diversity?

h) Should the founding principles acknowledge the national flag, national anthem and public seal?

i) Should the founding principles of the constitution recognize our international relations with other countries?

j) Should the founding principles of the constitution define by whom and how should hero status be conferred?

k) Should the founding principles of the constitution recognize the calling for patriotism and loyalty to Zimbabwe?

l) Should the founding principles of the constitution recognize the status of international treaties, conventions, and protocols and practices in our constitution?

m) Should the founding principles of the constitution define the land question? If yes, what principles on land reform should be specified?

n) Should the founding principles recognize the role and relevance of traditional institutions and customs in national development?