A bill proposing the extension of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s mandate is expected to be presented to Zimbabwe’s parliament in the coming days, with surprising support already emerging from the opposition.
On Tuesday, a senior official from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), led by opposition leader Nelson Chamisa, stated that the party would not obstruct the proposal when the government officially introduces it.
If approved, potentially through a referendum, the amendment would postpone the next elections until 2030, extending President Mnangagwa’s tenure beyond its current expiration in 2028.
The opposition’s decision to support the initiative has sparked widespread speculation. Observers suggest that delaying elections would allow sitting members of parliament to extend their terms by two additional years, offering them a personal incentive. Allegations of bribery have also surfaced, with some critics claiming lawmakers were paid to back the proposal.
Zimbabwe’s constitution currently restricts the presidency to two five-year terms, and Mnangagwa is in his second and final term. However, discussions about scrapping term limits gained traction during a Zanu-PF conference last October.
Notably, the CCC appears divided on the issue. While some members have endorsed the plan, others have denounced it, calling their colleagues “sellouts” for supporting the controversial move.
