PRESIDENT Robert Mugabe has warned that Zanu PF would reject the draft constitution if the charter, currently being drafted, undermines the party's key empowerment polices and the country’s cultural values.
Mugabe recently blasted moves to include gay rights in the constitution and his party also wants its controversial land reforms protected along with current moves to transfer control of foreign-owned companies to locals.
“Zanu-PF reserves the right to disassociate itself from a draft constitution which seeks to undermine the cardinal goals of our national liberation struggle and our national culture and values,” Mugabe said in a central committee report presented at the party’s conference in Bulawayo.
Zimbabwe is writing a new constitution as part of a raft of reforms expected to lead to new elections next year.
The process has however, been delayed by inadequate funding and squabbling between political parties.
Once completed, the new charter must be put to a referendum followed by the new elections.
Mugabe blamed his rivals for the slow pace of the reforms.
“It is sad that this much awaited referendum on the proposed draft constitution, which must pave way for elections and should have been completed by now, continues to be stalled, if not forestalled, by our adversaries who do not seem to want to see their new found comforts under the inclusive Government overturned by motions of democracy,” he said.
The Zanu PF leader said his coalition partners were dragging the process to delay the new elections which would end the unity government.
“There is fear of defeat now dictating their stances. Shame, shame, shame! Elections have to come soon this coming year,” he said.
“The GNU has become a drag on our nation. This conference must send a clear message that elections must be held early next year without fail.”
Political analysts say Zanu PF is pressing for early elections fearing that Mugabe, who would be 89 in 2013, may not cope with the pressure of campaigning then.
A June 2008 U.S. diplomatic cable released by WikiLeaks in September claimed Mugabe had prostate cancer that had spread to other organs.
He was urged by his physician to step down in 2008 but has stayed in the job.
Mugabe has also travelled to the Far East several times this year, allegedly for medical attention.
He however, maintains he is still fit.