Mnangagwa silence raises eyebrows

President Emmerson Mnangagwa's silence on calls to extend his presidential term limit has raised questions about his commitment to upholding Zimbabwe's Constitution. Analysts argue that his failure to denounce those advocating for the "ED 2030" agenda contradicts his previous statements promising to adhere to constitutional term limits.

Mnangagwa has publicly stated that he has no interest in extending his presidency beyond 2028, but critics suggest his silence signals tacit approval of the movement. By 2030, Mnangagwa would be in his 90s, prompting comparisons to former President Robert Mugabe, whose extended rule led to political and economic turmoil.

Political commentator Rashweat Mukundu described the "ED 2030" campaign as a self-serving initiative driven by individuals with no real political influence. He suggested these proponents are focused on preserving their personal benefits rather than serving national interests.

"The 'ED 2030' agenda is being hoisted on society by people with no political grounding in Zanu-PF, but by hangers-on concerned about losing their jobs and benefits," Mukundu told TellZim News.

He added that Mnangagwa stands to benefit regardless of the outcome:
"If 2030 succeeds, he can claim he was pressured to stay. If it collapses, he will say he always intended to step down as a constitutionalist."

Dr. Arthur Chikerema, a political scientist, dismissed the argument that unfinished projects justify extending Mnangagwa's term.

"What tangible achievements can justify this extension? This is merely a scheme for a privileged few to continue enjoying wealth while ordinary citizens suffer," he said.

On January 21, 2025, the Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations (ZHOCD) issued a statement condemning the push for term extensions. The group urged Mnangagwa to resist such calls and uphold the Constitution.

"The call to extend the Presidential Term Limit and postpone the 2028 elections is an invitation for the President to become complicit in overthrowing the Constitution," read part of the statement.

While some officials, like Mnangagwa, remain silent, others have openly supported the proposal. Minister of Information Jenfan Muswere framed the term extension as a democratic obligation, arguing that Parliament and Zanu-PF have a duty to consider the wishes of their electorate.

"The call to extend the Presidential term of office remains a rightful and unquestionable obligation for Parliament, the Party, and other stakeholders," Muswere said.

The "ED 2030" movement is reportedly driven by a faction within Zanu-PF seeking to block Vice President Constantino Chiwenga from succeeding Mnangagwa. Provincial leaders, particularly in Masvingo, are allegedly pressuring rural party members to support the term extension resolution endorsed at Zanu-PF's national conference in Bulawayo last year.

Youth leaders and civil society groups have pledged to resist any attempts to alter the Constitution. Learnmore Munhangu, a youth leader, emphasized the need for peaceful and intellectual opposition.
"As young people, it's our duty to defend the Constitution and our future. Let's focus on long-term implications and resist attempts to undermine democracy," Munhangu said.

With Zimbabwe's political landscape heating up, the debate over term limits underscores deeper tensions within the ruling party and broader questions about governance and constitutional integrity.