All Constitution Sections

Section 193: Criminal jurisdiction of courts

Constitution of Zimbabwe

Only the following courts may exercise or be given jurisdiction in criminal cases—

    (a) the Constitutional Court, the Supreme Court, the High Court and magistrates courts;

    (b) a court or tribunal that deals with cases under a disciplinary law, to the extent that the

jurisdiction is necessary for the enforcement of discipline in the disciplined force

concerned.

CHAPTER 9

P RINCIPLES OF PUBLIC A DMINISTRATION AND L EADERSHIP

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AI Insights

Insight on Criminal Jurisdiction of Courts

This provision establishes a strict limitation on which institutions can handle criminal matters in Zimbabwe. By restricting criminal jurisdiction to only constitutional/regular courts and disciplinary tribunals (like military courts), the constitution prevents the creation of special or extraordinary courts that might bypass normal judicial safeguards. This serves as an important protection against arbitrary justice and helps maintain separation of powers.