Parliament Legal Committee (LPC) reversed its stance on the Death Penalty Abolition Bill, withdrawing a previously issued Adverse Report.
This bill was introduced by opposition legislator Edwin Mushoriwa, aims to abolish the death penalty in Zimbabwe.
The Parliamentary Legal Committee (LPC) had initially issued the Adverse Report, raising concerns about the bill’s constitutional compatibility.
An Adverse Report signals potential violations within proposed legislation.
However, following further deliberations and proposed amendments, the LPC decided to withdraw its adverse assessment.
“The majority of Members of the Committee voted to withdraw the adverse report,” announced the Committee Chair Itayi Ndudzo.
“We believe all concerns raised in the adverse report will be incorporated into the bill through subsequent amendments,” he added
Ndudzo moved a motion in Parliament to acknowledge the withdrawal of the Adverse Report and the issuance of a Non-Adverse Report.
“This decision demonstrates our commitment to upholding constitutional principles while pursuing legislative reforms,” Ndudzo remarked.
The motion received unanimous approval from the House, signaling broad support for the bill’s progress.
Minister of Justice, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs, Hon. Ziyambi Ziyambi, expressed support for the bill and commended Hon. Mushoriwa for his efforts.
“With the withdrawal of the Adverse Report, we move one step closer to enacting meaningful reforms that reflect our nation’s values
“I thank Hon. Mushoriwa for taking the initiative as a Private Member to introduce this important bill,” said Ziyambi.
The withdrawal of the Adverse Report marks a significant development in the legislative process surrounding the Death Penalty Abolition Bill.
The Death Penalty Abolition Bill now moves forward to its next stage in the legislative process.
