Tinotenda Hove- The controversial Constitutional Amendment (No. 3) Bill (CAB3) has moved a step closer to becoming law after sailing through the Senate, despite mounting criticism from opponents who argue the proposed changes threaten constitutional democracy and further consolidate executive power.

The bill’s passage through the upper house marks another major victory for the ruling establishment, with critics warning that the amendments could weaken key democratic safeguards and erode institutional independence.

Speaking to State media on Wednesday, Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi confirmed that the bill is not yet at the finish line, saying it will return to Parliament for consideration of amendments proposed by the Senate before being forwarded to President Emmerson Mnangagwa for final assent.

“The bill will be taken back to Parliament for deliberation of amendments proposed by the Senate and from there it will be taken to Mnangagwa for final approval,” said Ziyambi.

The latest development has intensified concerns among legal experts and opposition voices, who see CAB3 as part of a broader effort to reshape constitutional provisions in favour of the executive. Critics argue the speed and ease with which the bill has progressed reflect shrinking resistance within Parliament to controversial legislation.

With only procedural steps remaining, attention now shifts to whether Parliament will rubber-stamp the Senate’s proposed amendments before the bill lands on Mnangagwa’s desk for final approval.