Mnangagwa's third term in office call derail gains of Constitution

Civil society organizations have strongly criticized calls from Zanu-PF for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to seek a third term, labeling such proposals as "unfortunate and illegal." Under Zimbabwean law, the presidency is limited to two five-year terms, making this Mnangagwa's final term. However, there has been a growing chorus among his supporters within Zanu-PF for an extension of his tenure, with slogans like "2030 VaMnangagwa vanenge vachipo (Mnangagwa will still be in office in 2030)" gaining traction at ruling party gatherings.

Despite Mnangagwa dismissing any ambitions for a third term and pledging to abide by the Constitution, concerns persist that the ruling party may seek to amend the Constitution to allow him to continue in office for another term.

In a statement marking the 11th anniversary of the Zimbabwean Constitution, Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition condemned these proposals, asserting that they pose a threat to democracy and undermine the progress made since the constitution was adopted.

The Coalition emphasized the importance of upholding the constitution as a sacred and binding document, warning against its manipulation by political elites to serve personal interests. It denounced any attempts to amend the constitution to remove presidential term limits, viewing such actions as a betrayal of democratic values and a setback for Zimbabwean citizens who overwhelmingly supported the constitution's adoption.

The calls for President Mnangagwa to seek another term have drawn condemnation from political observers, opposition parties, and civil society groups alike. Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition reiterated the need for the government and ruling party to demonstrate genuine commitment to constitutionalism and democracy, urging them to prioritize aligning laws with the constitution to ensure the protection of human rights and the rule of law.

However, the Coalition lamented the slow progress in aligning laws with the constitution since Mnangagwa assumed office in 2017, noting a continued erosion of the democratic and civic space in Zimbabwe. It criticized the lack of political will to implement constitutional reforms that promote democracy and good governance, highlighting ongoing amendments to the constitution that do not uphold democratic principles.