Zanu-PF's controversial 2030 plot a calculated

A controversial plan by President Emmerson Mnangagwa's loyalists to extend his presidential term from 2028 to 2030 is not just a political maneuver but a critical test of Zimbabwe's constitutional integrity, according to a new report by the Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiCZ).

Although Mnangagwa has publicly stated he does not support extending his term, his supporters within Zanu-PF are reportedly pushing to suspend the 2028 elections and delay them until 2030. This move would effectively extend his stay in office beyond the current constitutional limits.

The existing 2013 Constitution mandates a national referendum to amend the presidential term limits - a process designed to exclude sitting incumbents from benefiting. However, reports suggest that Zanu-PF, along with opposition figures including self-styled Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) member Sengezo Tshabangu, are preparing to introduce a parliamentary motion seeking to amend Section 91(2) of the Constitution. This amendment would give Parliament the power to determine an extended tenure for the president beyond the stipulated two-term limit.

Critics argue the proposal threatens to erode Zimbabwe's democratic principles and undermine the constitution's integrity. The CiCZ report, compiled by legal expert Amanda Sihle Ndlovu, warns that such amendments would represent a deliberate weakening of constitutionalism, enabling the executive to encroach further on the judiciary and legislature - the essential checks and balances in a functioning democracy.

"Presidential term limits are a cornerstone of democratic governance, designed to prevent the consolidation of power and promote regular leadership renewal," the report states. "They serve as a safeguard against authoritarianism, ensuring that no single individual can dominate the political landscape indefinitely. Zimbabwe's 2013 Constitution enshrines these limits to foster democratic principles and accountability."

Ndlovu, a registered legal practitioner and part-time lecturer at the University of Zimbabwe, highlights the country's constitutional history, noting how successive amendments to the Lancaster House Constitution often concentrated power in the executive. She cautions against the "weaponisation" of constitutional provisions to entrench political power and suppress dissent.

Importantly, Section 328(5) of the Constitution explicitly prohibits amendments that benefit a sitting president by extending their tenure, stating that such changes "do not apply to anyone holding the office when the amendment is made." This legal safeguard means that even if Parliament passed a bill extending term limits, it could not legally apply to Mnangagwa unless further amendments override this clause.

"The debate on extending presidential term limits in Zimbabwe is not merely a political issue - it is a fundamental test of constitutionalism," Ndlovu asserts. "If Zimbabwe amends its Constitution to allow an incumbent to extend their stay in office, it would set a dangerous precedent that could irreversibly weaken constitutional governance."

She adds, "Term limits were introduced precisely to prevent lifetime presidencies and ensure power remains accountable to the people. Removing them would mark a return to indefinite rule, hollowed institutions, and undermined democratic processes."

Ndlovu urges Zimbabweans to reject regressive constitutional changes and defend principles of regular leadership renewal, legal certainty, and the rule of law. "Countries that disregard term limits often face political instability, loss of democratic legitimacy, and eroded public trust," she warns. "Protecting term limits is essential to upholding Zimbabwe's commitment to constitutional democracy."

As the political landscape intensifies ahead of 2028, the controversy over Mnangagwa's term highlights the broader struggle over Zimbabwe's democratic future and the resilience of its constitutional order.