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PUP calls for GNU if Mnangagwa's term extended to 2030
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The People's Unity Party (PUP) has urged that any extension of President Emmerson Mnangagwa's term to 2030 be accompanied by an inclusive government that accommodates opposition parties, civil society, churches, and citizens.
Speaking at a press conference in Harare, PUP president Herbert Chamuka said his party supports certain aspects of Zanu-PF's Vision 2030 development agenda but stressed that political inclusion must underpin any term extension.
"Stretching the president's term to 2030 is not a bad idea in itself, but it must be inclusive," Chamuka said. "Opposition parties, civil society organisations, churches, and citizens must be part of that process."
Chamuka highlighted the fragmentation of opposition parties since the death of former MDC leader Morgan Tsvangirai, arguing that this disunity has contributed to repeated electoral losses against a unified Zanu-PF. He said an inclusive government would allow opposition parties to contribute to policy development, including proposals on wages, economic recovery, media freedom, and currency stability.
He also linked political inclusion to the potential lifting of international sanctions, noting that "Zimbabwe as a country is not sanctioned. Individuals and the ruling party are."
Chamuka criticised confrontational opposition tactics, arguing that demonstrations have failed to yield tangible benefits, and called for collaboration with government rather than reliance on foreign powers. He went further, suggesting that national unity should take precedence over electoral competition.
The proposed constitutional amendment to extend Mnangagwa's term would require parliamentary approval and a national referendum. While Mnangagwa has previously affirmed his commitment to the constitution and indicated no interest in extending his tenure, divisions have reportedly emerged within Zanu-PF over the proposed move.
Justice Minister and Zanu-PF secretary for legal affairs Ziyambi Ziyambi confirmed that the party began drafting legislation to extend the president's term following endorsement at the 2025 annual conference in Mutare.
Speaking at a press conference in Harare, PUP president Herbert Chamuka said his party supports certain aspects of Zanu-PF's Vision 2030 development agenda but stressed that political inclusion must underpin any term extension.
"Stretching the president's term to 2030 is not a bad idea in itself, but it must be inclusive," Chamuka said. "Opposition parties, civil society organisations, churches, and citizens must be part of that process."
Chamuka highlighted the fragmentation of opposition parties since the death of former MDC leader Morgan Tsvangirai, arguing that this disunity has contributed to repeated electoral losses against a unified Zanu-PF. He said an inclusive government would allow opposition parties to contribute to policy development, including proposals on wages, economic recovery, media freedom, and currency stability.
Chamuka criticised confrontational opposition tactics, arguing that demonstrations have failed to yield tangible benefits, and called for collaboration with government rather than reliance on foreign powers. He went further, suggesting that national unity should take precedence over electoral competition.
The proposed constitutional amendment to extend Mnangagwa's term would require parliamentary approval and a national referendum. While Mnangagwa has previously affirmed his commitment to the constitution and indicated no interest in extending his tenure, divisions have reportedly emerged within Zanu-PF over the proposed move.
Justice Minister and Zanu-PF secretary for legal affairs Ziyambi Ziyambi confirmed that the party began drafting legislation to extend the president's term following endorsement at the 2025 annual conference in Mutare.
Source - newsday
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