•
COPAC has constructively engaged civil society organisations in the process, despite a rocky
start. Regular briefing meetings are held with civics and the press, and the co-chairs welcome
feedback. In addition, COPAC sought to legitimise the role of civic monitors by giving them
accreditation. In theory, this should decrease the harassment of monitors by police and other
agents.
Non-compliance
•
Logistical problems hampered the start of the outreach. This was mainly due to issues with
disbursement of funds for outreach teams, to ensure their travel and accommodation costs.
Some equipment was outstanding by the start of the outreaches which also slowed proceedings.
•
The environment was not conducive to the start of open and democratic consultations given
the existence of legislation which curtails people’s right to assembly and association; and the
wide-spread intimidation that was occurring in rural areas, advocating one draft above another.
•
Political parties sought to dominate the process. Many appointments to the teams were on a
party ticket, and parties were active in promoting party positions to the constitution amongst
their supporters, and other unwilling members of the public. Reports of coaching and bullying
were rife.
•
Related to the above, participation at the meetings has not met expectations. There was low
youth turn-out, and less women contributing than men. This is partly attributable to the tense
atmosphere in some of the meetings combined with the fear of repercussions; but also due to
COPAC’s non-adherence to their publicised calendar of meetings.
MEDIA REFORM AND FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION
Compliance
•
The gazetting and formalization of the Zimbabwe Media Commission as per CA 19; whose
mandate it will be to issues broadcasting licenses.
•
The Zimbabwe Media Commission established and starts operations by inviting applications
for registration of media houses and practitioners. By end of review period, 8 new players
were granted licenses.
•
The government workplan includes other elements of legislative reform for the media.
Non-compliance
·
The government-controlled media continue to report in a discriminatory and inflammatory
fashion, undermining political rivals of ZANU -PF.
CIVIL SOCIETY MONITORING MECHANISM (CISOMM)
SIX MONTH SHADOW REPORT ON THE PERFORMANCE OF THE INCLUSIVE OF ZIMBABWE
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