Zimbabwe’s ruling ZANU-PF party has endorsed a proposal to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s tenure by two years, a move that could allow him to remain in office until 2030. The resolution, adopted at the party’s annual conference in Mutare, directs the government to initiate constitutional changes to formalize the extension, as reported by Reuters.
Under the current constitution, Mnangagwa is set to complete his final term in 2028 after serving two five-year terms. Justice Minister and ZANU-PF legal secretary Ziyambi Ziyambi confirmed that legislative work to amend the constitution will begin soon, emphasizing that the proposal reflects the party’s desire for “continuity in leadership and policy stability.”
The move has drawn criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups, who argue it undermines constitutional democracy and sets a dangerous precedent. Opposition leaders warned that the extension would be challenged in court, insisting that “the supremacy of the constitution must not be compromised.”
Political analysts suggest the development could heighten internal power struggles within ZANU-PF, particularly between Mnangagwa and Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, while raising investor concerns over political stability. The ruling party, however, maintains that the measure is necessary to sustain economic recovery and ensure policy consistency.
