Zimbabwe constitutional changes spark debate over democracy

Zimbabwean lawyer and political scientist Tinashe Chiname says Constitutional Amendment No. 3 is likely to face legal scrutiny, with opponents arguing that some of its provisions should have been subjected to a public referendum. He says the amendments have opened a broader debate about presidential succession, parliamentary power and the future direction of Zimbabwe's political system. Chiname adds that the ultimate test for Zimbabwe's democracy will be the strength of its institutions, accountability mechanisms and the courts' handling of any constitutional challenges.