Mnangagwa Rule Extension Blocked by Zimbabwe Opposition MPs

Zimbabwean opposition MPs are vowing to fight a proposed constitutional amendment that would extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s rule until 2030. The move comes after Parliament gazetted the bill, which would add two years to Mnangagwa’s second term, currently set to end in 2028.

Opposition Vows to Block Presidential Term Extension

Opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) MPs have stated their intention to block the bill, labeling it undemocratic despite the ruling Zanu PF party’s parliamentary majority.

“We need to block this amendment. Apparently, for some of us, we have a strong mandate from the constituency. We have asked our constituency online, and 98% of our people have told me unequivocally that as their MP, I should go and say no to this third constitutional amendment that is coming. So it is my job as a representative of the people to ensure and influence all other MPs. We should actually unite to make sure this bill does not pass through in parliament,” said CCC MP Edwin Mushoriwa.

However, Tonderai Chidawa, of the Zanu PF-affiliated Zimbabwe Youth Action Platform, expressed confidence that the bill would pass.

“The bill will sail through, we cannot debate about these comical political parties, we have clowns in politics and it’s allowed. But the bill will definitely sail through, it’s a game of numbers. Zanu PF has the majority, including those in opposition. Basically, the train is unstoppable, and you cannot stop a missile when it’s on cruise, the ball is rolling,” Chidawa said.