Zimbabwe’s 2030 Power Shift Mnangagwa Moves to Extend Rule

Zimbabwe’s 2030 Power Shift: Mnangagwa Moves to Extend Rule

Zimbabwe’s political future has taken a dramatic turn and the stakes could not be higher. The government in Harare has approved draft legislation that could keep President Emmerson Mnangagwa in power until 2030, reshaping the country’s constitution and igniting fierce debate across the nation.

At 83 years old, Mnangagwa is currently serving his second and final five-year term. Under the existing constitution, he is due to step down in 2028. But the new proposal would stretch presidential terms from five years to seven and crucially, it would allow the president to be chosen by members of parliament rather than by a direct popular vote. With the ruling ZANU-PF party holding a dominant majority in parliament, critics say this could effectively secure Mnangagwa’s continued leadership.

Mnangagwa first came to power in 2017 after a military intervention ended the long rule of Robert Mugabe. At the time, many Zimbabweans hoped for economic recovery and political reform. Instead, the country has continued to face deep economic strain, high inflation and allegations of corruption. Elections in 2018 and again in 2023 returned Mnangagwa to office, but both contests were clouded by disputes and accusations from the opposition.

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Now, the proposed constitutional changes are being described by opponents as a direct assault on democratic safeguards. Zimbabwe adopted presidential term limits in a 2013 referendum, a move widely seen as protection against lifelong rule. Legal experts argue that any change affecting term limits should also go back to the people through another referendum. They warn that altering the rules in a way that benefits a sitting president could spark legal battles and political instability.

Supporters inside the government say the amendments are about stability and continuity. They argue that long-term development programs need consistent leadership to succeed. But opposition figures and civil society groups fear the changes could tighten the ruling party’s grip on power and weaken democratic accountability.

This moment matters far beyond Zimbabwe’s borders. Southern Africa has long wrestled with the balance between stability and democratic renewal. Investors, regional partners and international observers will be watching closely. Any unrest or prolonged uncertainty could ripple through the economy and the broader region.

The bill will now move toward parliamentary debate and public consultations are expected. Whether it proceeds smoothly or triggers a constitutional showdown remains to be seen. What is certain is that Zimbabwe stands at a crossroads, with its democratic framework under intense scrutiny.

Stay with us as we continue to follow this developing story and bring you the latest updates from Harare and beyond.

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