Faith Nyasuguta
Zimbabwe’s opposition has shocked many by announcing it will not oppose calls to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term by two years, sparking heated debates on the integrity of the country’s politics. Critics now question whether this decision was driven by genuine political alignment or fueled by hidden incentives.
President Mnangagwa’s second and final term is set to end in 2028, with Zimbabwe’s constitution limiting presidents to two five-year terms. Extending his tenure would require a constitutional amendment and a public referendum. While Mnangagwa initially rejected calls from his ZANU-PF party in October 2024 to extend his term, recent developments suggest a renewed push, with tacit support from the opposition.
Sengezo Tshabangu, leader of the opposition in parliament and a lawmaker from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), stirred controversy after voicing support during a visit to Mnangagwa’s farm. “If we approve your stay in power and the people of Zimbabwe are happy, let it be,” Tshabangu remarked, prompting accusations of collusion between opposition leaders and the ruling party.
Legal & Constitutional Challenges
Observers and civil society organizations have raised concerns over possible bribery influencing the opposition’s stance. Extending Mnangagwa’s term would also lengthen the tenure of sitting Members of Parliament, a scenario that some believe incentivizes lawmakers to support the proposal.
The Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN), a coalition of 37 NGOs, criticized the move, stating, “Segments of the opposition aligning with the ruling party raises serious concerns about motivations and their implications for Zimbabwe’s democracy.”
This suspicion has divided the CCC, with some members vehemently opposing the extension and labeling their colleagues as “sellouts.” The internal rift has fueled speculation that opposition lawmakers may have received financial or political incentives to support the controversial proposal.
A senior CCC official added to the controversy, confirming the party would not block the government’s proposal if introduced in parliament. This decision has drawn backlash from both political analysts and Zimbabwean citizens, many of whom view it as a betrayal of democratic principles.
Impact On Democratic Integrity
Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi has defended the push for amendments, stating that Zimbabwe remains “a democracy guided by the will of the people.” He emphasized that constitutional changes would reflect public opinion if approved.
However, legal experts argue that the process is far from straightforward. Constitutional lawyer Lovemore Madhuku has strongly condemned the proposal, calling it a “coup against the Constitution.” Madhuku stressed that extending presidential or parliamentary terms requires two referenda: one to remove term limits and another to amend provisions barring incumbents from benefiting from such changes. “Parliament cannot lawfully amend the Constitution without following this process,” he said.
ZANU-PF’s internal discussions on removing term limits reportedly began during their party conference in October 2024. The ruling party appears intent on pushing the agenda, despite significant legal and ethical hurdles.
The debate over Mnangagwa’s term extension has amplified concerns about the erosion of democracy in Zimbabwe. Critics argue that deferring elections undermines constitutional mandates and sets a dangerous precedent for the Southern African region.
The Zimbabwe Election Support Network reiterated its call for electoral reforms and adherence to constitutional timelines. “Deviating from these principles jeopardizes trust in governance,” ZESN stated, warning that the proposed amendments could have far-reaching consequences.
A senior ZANU-PF official, speaking anonymously, criticized the opposition’s support, saying, “It’s insanity for the opposition to openly advocate for the ruling party’s continued dominance. This is a betrayal of the electorate.”
An Eye on Africa
Zimbabwe’s political dynamics reflect bigger concerns about democracy in Africa, where constitutional manipulations to extend presidential terms are increasingly common. The opposition’s alleged complicity in Zimbabwe’s case further undermines public trust, raising critical questions about the role of money and power in African politics.
The unfolding events in Zimbabwe provide a cautionary tale about the fragility of democracy and the urgent need for accountability within political systems. Whether the opposition was bribed or genuinely aligned with the ruling party’s vision, the controversy highlights the challenges of safeguarding democracy in the region.
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