Judgment No CCZ 5/14 4
Const. Application No CCZ 114/13
(3) A child found in Zimbabwe who is, or appears to be, less than fifteen years of age,
and whose nationality and parents are not known, is presumed to be a
Zimbabwean citizen by birth.
42 Powers of Parliament in regard to citizenship
An Act of Parliament may make provision, consistent with this Chapter, for—
(a) procedures by which Zimbabwean citizenship by registration may be
acquired;
(b) the voluntary renunciation of Zimbabwean citizenship;
(c) procedures for the revocation of Zimbabwean citizenship by registration;
(d) the restoration of Zimbabwean citizenship;
(e) the prohibition of dual citizenship in respect of citizens by descent or
registration; and
(f) generally giving effect to this Chapter.
The powers given to Parliament in respect of revocation of Zimbabwean
citizenship and the prohibition of dual citizenship relate only to citizens of Zimbabwe other
than by birth.
No similar provision is made in respect of citizens by birth.
Thus a
Zimbabwean citizen by birth does not lose his or her citizenship on acquiring a foreign
citizenship. He or she is entitled to hold foreign citizenship and a foreign passport. Indeed
the Constitution has made it clear that Zimbabwean citizenship by birth cannot be lost. That
much was decided in Mawere v Registrar General CCZ 30/13 (not yet reported) and
conceded by the respondents in this case. The only issue which falls for determination is
whether this Court should order the endorsement sought by the applicant.
THE RIGHT TO FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT
The freedom of movement and residence in Zimbabwe is a right guaranteed by
the Constitution to every Zimbabwean citizen and every person who is legally in Zimbabwe.
It includes the right to enter and leave Zimbabwe as well as immunity from expulsion from
Zimbabwe. Section 66 of the Constitution provides:
“66 Freedom of movement and residence
(1) Every Zimbabwean citizen has—