Zanu PF national spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa has announced that the party is committed to extending President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term of office to 2030, effectively blocking any early succession attempts within the party.
- CAB3 Proposal: The Constitutionals Amendment No 3 Bill (CAB3) seeks to extend President Mnangagwa’s term from 2028 to 2030.
- Internal Pushback: Retired generals, war veterans, and some party members are opposing the proposed term extension.
- Party Discipline: Mutsvangwa warned that the door is closed for anyone attempting to replace the President before 2030.
The 2030 Mandate
Speaking during a press briefing at Zanu PF headquarters, Mutsvangwa stated that a party resolution dictates the President’s rule must extend to 2030. He warned those allegedly involved in factional activities to maintain their standing in the party if they hope to succeed Mnangagwa after that date.
“If you have been meeting as a faction or trying to take over from him, just wait for 2030,” Mutsvangwa said. “Just make sure you keep your health and if you are a member of the party, maintain your standing with the membership in good condition.”
Internal Conflict Over CAB3
The push for a Zanu PF term extension through CAB3 has created divisions within the party. The bill seeks to overhaul several sections of the country’s charter to move the term expiration from 2028 to 2030.
Reports indicate that the party recently required members to make submissions in favor of CAB3, with the threat of severe sanctions for those who did not comply.
Mutsvangwa noted that the party has avoided excessive public discussion regarding the bill, opting instead to participate through administrative and advisory departments during parliamentary consultations.
Succession and Political Tension
While previous reports suggested Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga was positioned to replace Mnangagwa ahead of the 2028 general elections, Mutsvangwa explicitly denied this possibility, reiterating that the door remains closed until 2030.
Mutsvangwa further warned war veterans and former army generals against making public statements opposing the extension, stating, “don’t try to make noise now, because that door is going to be closed.”
Zanu PF is scheduled to hold its elective congress next year. President Mnangagwa has not yet named a preferred successor, mirroring the approach taken by the late former President Robert Mugabe.
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