What is the Separation of Powers (Zimbabwe)?

This video is part of the Civics Academy Governance Series for Zimbabwe. In these videos we explore different aspects of democratic governance and the concept of the separation of powers as one of the key features of democracy. Please check out our website: civicsacademy.co.za
The separation of powers is a key feature of a democratic system of government. This system divides the state into three branches - the legislative, executive and judicial branch - and gives each the power to fulfil different tasks. Tasks are assigned to the different branches and their institutions in such a way that each of them can check the exercise of power by the others. As a result, no one branch or institution can become so powerful as to control the system completely.
In Zimbabwe the separation of powers is one of the founding values and principles of the Constitution. Chapters 5, 6 & 8 of the Constitution lay out the structure, roles and responsibilities of the three branches of government - the executive, the legislature and the judiciary.
Chapter 5 of the Constitution establishes the executive branch. It consists of the President, the Vice-Presidents and the Cabinet Ministers. The executive formulates policies, administers and implements the laws made by the legislature, and enforces the decisions of the judiciary.
We explain the tasks and responsibilities of the Executive in more detail in our video “What is the Executive?”
The legislative branch of government is established by Chapter 6 of the Constitution. The legislature is also known as Parliament, and consists of two houses: the National Assembly and the Senate. This is where laws are debated and passed.
We explain the tasks and responsibilities of the legislature in more detail in our video “What is the Legislature?”
The third branch is the judiciary, established by Chapter 8 of the Constitution. This branch includes all courts as well as all judges and magistrates working in these courts. The judiciary interprets and applies the law.
In contrast to the other two branches, which are made up of political party representatives, the judiciary has to be impartial and non-political.
We explain the tasks and responsibilities of the judiciary in more detail in our video “What is the Judiciary?”