Fears are mounting in Zimbabwe as the ruling Zanu-PF party pushes ahead with constitutional amendments that could change how the country’s President is elected.
The proposed changes would give parliament the power to choose the President, rather than voters, and extend the presidential term from five to seven years.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who came to power in 2017 after ousting long-time leader Robert Mugabe with military backing, later won elections in 2018 and 2023 amid disputes over their fairness.
Opposition leaders have raised concerns that these amendments could mark a new phase of political consolidation and repression. Under the 2013 constitution, a president is limited to two terms, and any move to extend these limits would require approval through a public referendum.
Political analyst Zimba Chikomo said, “This is a critical moment for Zimbabwe. The proposed changes risk undermining democratic processes and could deepen tensions across the country.”
–ChannelAfrica–
