'Survey reflects citizens views on Zanu-PF's 2030 plot'

The opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has said that recent Afrobarometer survey results reflect a deep national crisis of confidence in Zimbabwe's democratic institutions, casting doubt on the credibility of any proposed extension of President Emmerson Mnangagwa's term to 2030.

The survey showed that nearly eight in 10 Zimbabweans support electing their leaders through polls and reject the ruling party's resolution to extend the President's tenure beyond 2028 without a vote.

In a press statement, CCC faction leader Jameson Timba said the data confirms widespread public mistrust in the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) and underscores the need for strong constitutional safeguards. "Zimbabweans lack confidence in key democratic institutions, especially Zec, and this institutional mistrust has direct implications for the ongoing push to amend the Constitution and extend the presidential term to 2030," he said.

The report revealed that only 7.7% of citizens fully trust Zec, while 48% expressed only "somewhat" trust. Additionally, 43.6% of respondents believe that voter registration should be removed from Zec and returned to the Registrar-General's office.

"These numbers are not technical statistics; they are a national cry," Timba said. "Zimbabweans are saying clearly that the institutions are weak and must be reformed before any major constitutional change is contemplated."

Timba warned that any attempt to extend the presidential term raises serious constitutional questions, as amendments affecting term limits require a national referendum under section 328(5) of the Constitution. "A referendum conducted under an institution lacking public trust is neither credible nor legitimate. Weak institutions cannot protect constitutional integrity," he said.

He emphasised that citizens are not rejecting elections but are instead calling for stronger institutions and credible governance. "The Afrobarometer data proves that the country's democracy is vulnerable and its institutions fragile. 2030 is unconstitutional in law and reckless in context. Zimbabweans want strong institutions, credible elections, and leadership that respects the limits of its mandate," Timba said.