Section 68: Right to administrative justice
Constitution of Zimbabwe
(1) Every person has a right to administrative conduct that is lawful, prompt, efficient, reasonable, proportionate, impartial and both substantively and procedurally fair.
(2) Any person whose right, freedom, interest or legitimate expectation has been adversely affected by administrative conduct has the right to be given promptly and in writing the reasons for the conduct.
(3) An Act of Parliament must give effect to these rights, and mustโ
(a) provide for the review of administrative conduct by a court or, where appropriate, by
an independent and impartial tribunal;
(b) impose a duty on the State to give effect to the rights in subsections (1) and (2); and
(c) promote an efficient administration.
Key Insight: Administrative Justice in Zimbabwe
This section establishes a comprehensive framework for administrative justice that balances citizen rights with governmental efficiency. It not only guarantees fair treatment but creates accountability through mandatory written explanations and judicial review mechanisms. The requirement for Parliament to enact supporting legislation transforms these principles from abstract rights into enforceable protections, creating a system where citizens can challenge unfair administrative decisions while promoting good governance.