In brief
In a decisive move, Zimbabwe’s National Assembly approved a constitutional amendment that lengthens presidential terms from five to seven years and eliminates direct elections. Over 200 lawmakers voted in favor, ensuring Mnangagwa—who first took power in 2017—can remain in office until 2030. The bill also transfers the power to elect presidents to parliament, delays the next parliamentary polls to 2030, and sidelines a proposed referendum to let voters decide the change. Opposition parties and civil society groups warn that such sweeping modifications could erode democratic accountability, while supporters argue they are needed for political stability.
On Thursday, Zimbabwe’s lower house of parliament voted overwhelmingly in favour of a constitutional amendment that will lengthen presidential terms from five to seven years and remove direct presidential elections. The amendment will allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in power until 2030.
The vote counted 216 lawmakers in favour and 42 opposed, surpassing the 187 votes required for a two‑thirds majority needed to amend the constitution. Speaker Jacob Mudenda announced that the bill will move to the senate, where it is expected to receive approval before the president can enact it.
Key Provisions of the Amendment
- Presidential elections, which have taken place since 1990, are scrapped.
- Future presidents will be chosen by the national parliament.
- Both parliamentary and presidential terms are extended from five to seven years.
- Election of the next legislature is postponed from 2028 to 2030.
- Mnangagwa’s second and final term, due to end in 2028, is extended to 2030.
The bill follows a seven‑month campaign by the ruling Zanu‑PF party to re‑sharpen the country’s constitutional rules. Mnangagwa has previously described himself as a constitutionalist, pledged to respect term limits, and has won disputed elections in 2018 and 2023.
Opposition parties, civil society groups, and constitutional lawyers argue that such a fundamental change should be put to a national referendum rather than passed solely by parliament. Critics worry that it could weaken democratic accountability, while supporters claim it ensures continuity and stability in a country still facing economic and political challenges.
The Constitutional Court dismissed a legal challenge to block the bill the previous day, clearing the path for the amendment’s passage through senate and presidential assent. The move marks a significant shift in Zimbabwe’s political landscape and raises questions about the future of democratic governance.
