United front against Mnangagwa's term extension

Plans are gaining momentum to integrate the Defend the Constitution Platform (DCP) and Constitutional Defence Forum (CDF) into a united front aimed at opposing President Emmerson Mnangagwa's proposed constitutional changes, which would extend the presidential term from five to seven years and abolish direct elections.

The DCP was formed in January 2026 following a resolution by Zanu PF in October 2025 to extend Mnangagwa's tenure. Its members include key leaders from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), such as Jameson Timba, Dubeko Sibanda, and Agency Gumbo, alongside civic and opposition veterans including Munyaradzi Gwisayi, Job Sikhala, Jacob Ngarivhume, and Obert Masaraure.

The CDF, launched earlier this month by former Finance Minister Tendai Biti, was specifically designed to serve as a rallying point against what critics describe as a "constitutional coup" by the government.

Leaders from both platforms have drafted a memorandum of understanding to formalize collaboration, though some issues - most notably the name of the new coalition - remain to be finalised.

The planned coalition seeks to consolidate opposition forces and civic activists under a single banner to resist what they view as unconstitutional maneuvers and subversion of democratic principles. Officials say the united front will serve as a central point for organising protests, advocacy, and public awareness campaigns against the extension of the presidential term.

With the constitutional amendments expected to be tabled in Parliament for debate and possible enactment, opposition leaders are intensifying efforts to mobilise Zimbabweans to contest the proposals both politically and through civic action.