HARARE - Women activists yesterday marched to Parliament protesting against delays in the completion of a new constitution, as coalition partners continue fighting over issues in the draft.

Over 200 women and men, all members of the Women Zimbabwe of Arise (Woza), which has been a vocal group on issues affecting women and their families, marched in Harare demanding to be addressed by Members of Parliament.

Since 2009 squabbles and disagreements have been rocking the parliamentary body responsible for writing the constitution, resulting in the stalling of progress at several levels.

Woza founder and leader Jenni Williams said Zimbabweans have been too patient with the entire constitution-making process.

“We want our stakeholders meeting, we want the date of the referendum announced so we vote yes or no to the constitution,” said Williams.

The women sang and danced, peacefully distributing flyers as members of the anti-riot police watched.
Williams said the women were giving MPs a week to deal with the contentious issues, warning to return if their grievances are ignored.

“This was just a warm-up,” said Williams.