HARARE, Zimbabwe — President Emmerson Mnangagwa moved closer to a possible third term Wednesday after Zimbabwe’s cabinet adopted draft constitutional amendments that would lengthen a president’s time in office and alter how the post is filled. Official statements indicate the package would extend a presidential mandate from five to seven years and replace direct popular elections with selection by parliament. Supporters inside the ruling party say the changes would foster stability, while opposition voices warn of repeating the prolonged rule that marked Robert Mugabe’s four-decade tenure.
Cabinet backed the proposals during its regular weekly session Tuesday, according to briefings released from government offices.
The legislation now goes to the justice ministry for drafting and must pass both parliamentary chambers and a national referendum before taking effect. Constitutional amendments require a two-thirds legislative majority and voter approval.
The 2013 charter currently bars any leader from serving more than two five-year terms. Mnangagwa, 83, won disputed ballots in 2018 and 2023, and is due to leave office in 2028. Independent observers say the new rules could let him stand again and potentially remain in State House until at least 2034.
Regional officials confirmed that the president has not publicly declared an intention to seek a third mandate, leaving uncertainty around his ultimate plans. Further details are expected once the full draft bill is published and parliamentary debate begins.
.
Source: Africa.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 2*
