Zimbabwe’s ruling party, ZANU-PF, has initiated plans to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term by two years, potentially keeping him in office until 2030. The announcement came during the party’s annual conference in Mutare, where delegates approved a motion instructing the government to begin drafting a constitutional amendment, according to Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi.
Currently, Mnangagwa, 83, is mandated by the Constitution to step down in 2028 after serving two elected terms. Any extension would require legal adjustments, possibly including referendums, experts say.
The conference was marked by applause as the motion passed, reflecting ZANU-PF’s long-standing stronghold on Zimbabwean politics. The party dominates parliament, giving it significant leverage, though legal experts anticipate potential challenges from opposition groups.
Mnangagwa has previously described himself as a “constitutionalist” with no desire to extend his tenure. However, some loyalists have quietly advocated for a prolonged term since last year’s contentious election. Meanwhile, rival party factions, particularly those aligned with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, have voiced resistance to the extension.
Opposition leaders have warned of legal pushback. Tendai Biti, a prominent opposition lawyer, stated that any constitutional manipulation would be contested in court to protect democratic principles.
Zimbabwe has faced growing economic difficulties under Mnangagwa’s leadership, including hyperinflation, widespread unemployment, and allegations of corruption. Efforts to organize public protests against the proposed extension have been limited, with police detaining elderly activists and young organizers earlier this year for allegedly inciting unrest.
The move highlights an intensifying power struggle within ZANU-PF, as one faction supports Mnangagwa’s continued leadership while another positions Chiwenga for potential future leadership
