Mnangagwa supporters in a political fix?

President Emmerson Mnangagwa recently convened a gathering of Zanu PF and main opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) legislators at his farm over the weekend, in a move to mobilise support and build a critical political base for his controversial plan to extend his presidency beyond the 2028 constitutional limit to 2030.

Despite Mnangagwa's claims of being a "constitutionalist" and distancing himself from desperate power grabs, his actions suggest a different narrative. His allies and supporters are forging ahead with the 2030 plan at his behest, raising concerns about democratic principles and constitutional integrity.

However, legal experts warn that parliament cannot legally extend the terms of office for Mnangagwa and Members of Parliament (MPs) without breaching the constitution and breaking the law.

"This puts Mnangagwa and his Zanu PF faction in a further conundrum," said legal analyst Tafadzwa Mahamba.

While Mnangagwa initially rose to power through a coup, he has consistently portrayed himself as a proponent of constitutionalism. However, his recent manoeuvres to extend his term suggest otherwise.

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, alongside his military-backed faction, has openly opposed the plan to extend Mnangagwa's term. This division within Zanu PF adds another layer of complexity to the situation, as tensions escalate within the ruling party over the legitimacy and legality of the proposed extension.

As the debate rages on, political analysts warn of potential constitutional crises and the erosion of democratic governance if the extension plan proceeds.