Regulation: Proposed Constitutional Amendment in Zimbabwe

The governing party of Zimbabwe, ZANU-PF, has announced plans to initiate a process to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term by two years, potentially extending his presidency until 2030. This initiative was approved at the party’s annual conference held in Mutare, where delegates instructed the government to draft legislation to amend the Constitution, according to Justice Minister and ZANU-PF legal secretary Ziyambi Ziyambi.

Constitutional Amendment Process

President Mnangagwa, aged 83, is currently required by the Constitution to vacate office in 2028 after completing two elected terms. Any extension would necessitate a constitutional amendment, possibly involving referendums, as noted by legal experts.

The proposal received significant support at the conference, reflecting ZANU-PF’s historical approach to governance since Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980. The party’s control over parliament provides it with considerable influence, although some insiders suggest that legal challenges could arise.

Internal Party Dynamics and Opposition

Despite Mnangagwa’s previous assertions of being a constitutionalist with no interest in extending his tenure, there has been a push from loyalists for an extended term since the disputed election last year. Opposition within the party, particularly from factions aligned with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, has been vocal against the extension.

Veteran liberation fighter and Chiwenga ally, Blessed Geza, has used online platforms to criticize the extension efforts, although calls for mass protests have not gained substantial momentum due to heavy police presence in major cities.

Economic Context and Legal Challenges

Mnangagwa ascended to power in 2017 with promises of democratic and economic reforms following the ousting of former President Robert Mugabe. However, his tenure has been characterized by economic challenges, including hyperinflation and unemployment, alongside allegations of corruption.

Legal opposition figures warn of resistance in court against any attempt to alter the Constitution. Opposition lawyer Tendai Biti has publicly committed to defending the Constitution against perceived manipulation.

Recently, ten elderly activists were arrested in Harare for allegedly planning a protest demanding Mnangagwa’s resignation. They face charges of inciting public violence and await a bail hearing.

The political landscape within ZANU-PF is increasingly divided, with factions either supporting Mnangagwa’s extended term or preparing for a potential transition to Chiwenga, the former army general instrumental in the 2017 coup.