Zimbabwe’s ruling ZANU-PF party has resolved to amend the constitution to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term by two years to 2030, sparking widespread criticism from opposition politicians who condemn the move as unlawful.
The proposal, adopted at a party conference, would prolong Mnangagwa’s second five-year term, currently set to end in 2028.
ZANU-PF secretary for legal affairs, Ziyambi Ziyambi, stated that the party and government must initiate legislative amendments to implement the resolution, citing the need for “continuity, stability and the sustained transformation of the nation”.
The resolution is seen as a power play amid a succession battle within ZANU-PF, with Mnangagwa’s main internal rival, former army general Constantino Chiwenga, accused of treasonous acts.
Opposition leaders have vowed to resist the move, with Jameson Timba, a senior opposition figure, calling for “civic vigilance and peaceful defence” of constitutionalism. “We are a constitutional democracy and the supremacy of the Constitution must remain non-negotiable,” Timba said.
Opposition Response:
- Jameson Timba: Called for formal clarification from the speaker of parliament and the minister of justice
- Job Sikhala: Warned of a “huge provocation” and a challenge to democratic forces
- Tendai Biti: Vowed to defend the Constitution against manipulation
The move has sparked concerns about Zimbabwe’s democratic future, with many questioning Mnangagwa’s commitment to stepping down in 2028 as previously stated.
