Freedom Alliance Joins Forces to Oppose ZANU-PF’s 2030 Term Extension Agenda

BULAWAYO – Opposition party Freedom Alliance (FA) has declared its intention to unite with other progressive forces to resist ZANU-PF’s controversial push to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term beyond the constitutional limit of 2028.

In a strongly worded statement, FA National Chairman Mqondisi Ndebele condemned the proposed constitutional amendment as a “mutilation of the constitution for personal gain,” warning that it threatens Zimbabwe’s democratic foundations.

“It has been a long time since the 2030 agenda began raising alarm across the political divide,” Ndebele said. “The disadvantages of extending the lifespan of the current Parliament and presidency have been well argued. We stand firmly against this.”

Ndebele also used the moment to highlight what he described as longstanding marginalisation of the Mthwakazi people. He drew parallels between the current constitutional debate and the state’s refusal to recognise the Ndebele monarchy, despite allowing other traditional leaders to operate with government support.

“When preparations to crown a Ndebele king were nearly complete, we were told the constitution does not provide for a king,” he said. “Yet we’ve seen the rise of other ‘kings’ and ‘mambos’ with state endorsement, while the constitution remains unchanged.”

He criticised the government’s failure to implement devolution—despite its constitutional mandate—and pointed to persistent underdevelopment in Matabeleland, including water shortages in Bulawayo, poor road infrastructure in Nkayi, and deteriorating schools and clinics.

Ndebele also raised concerns about the deployment of civil servants who do not speak local languages, leaving communities underserved while local professionals remain unemployed.

He condemned the government’s handling of the Gukurahundi genocide consultations, accusing it of bypassing legal frameworks and marginalising affected communities.

“The whole country is watching this abuse, but it’s left to Mthwakazi people to resist this bullying,” Ndebele said. “We must move the debate beyond legal technicalities and focus on what the people have always demanded- dignity, justice, and self-determination.”

The Freedom Alliance’s stance adds to growing national resistance against the 2030 agenda, which critics argue undermines constitutionalism and entrenches authoritarianism.