Section 145: First sitting of Parliament following general election
Constitution of Zimbabwe
(1) The first sitting of Parliament after a general election must take place at a time and date determined by the President, but the date must not be later than thirty days after the President- elect assumes office in terms of section 94.
(2) Until the election of a President of the Senate or a Speaker, as the case may be, the first meeting of a House of Parliament must be presided over by the Clerk of Parliament.
Insight: First Parliamentary Session After Elections
This provision ensures democratic continuity by requiring the new Parliament to convene promptly after elections. The 30-day maximum timeframe prevents potential power vacuums and ensures legislative oversight of the new administration begins quickly. The temporary chairmanship by the Clerk of Parliament (a non-partisan administrative officer) guarantees an impartial process for electing the presiding officers, establishing a neutral starting point for the new legislative term.