Zimbabwe’s lower house of parliament has approved a constitutional amendment that could significantly reshape the country’s political system. Lawmakers voted to extend presidential and parliamentary terms from five years to seven years.
More than 200 members supported the bill, easily passing the two thirds majority needed for constitutional change. The proposal now moves to the senate for final approval before it can become law.
Key changes in the amendment
The bill introduces several major reforms. It removes direct presidential elections. Future presidents would be chosen by parliament instead of voters.
It also extends both presidential and parliamentary terms to seven years. Parliamentary elections scheduled for 2028 would shift to 2030.
If fully implemented, the changes would allow Zimbabwe’s current leader, Emmerson Mnangagwa, to remain in office until 2030. His second term was expected to end in 2028.
Strong political debate over the reform
The ruling party, ZANU PF, has supported the constitutional changes. The party has governed Zimbabwe since independence in 1980.
Opposition groups, civil society organizations, and legal experts have strongly criticized the move. They argue that such a major shift should be decided through a public referendum rather than parliament alone.
Legal and constitutional concerns
Zimbabwe’s 2013 constitution limits presidents to two terms. It also states that any extension of term limits should be approved by voters in a referendum.
Critics say the current amendment challenges those safeguards. A legal case aimed at stopping the bill was dismissed by the Constitutional Court, allowing the process to continue.
Political background
Emmerson Mnangagwa came to power in 2017 after the removal of long time leader Robert Mugabe with military support. He later won elections in 2018 and 2023, both of which were disputed by opposition parties.
Supporters of the reform say the changes could improve stability and continuity. Critics warn it could reduce democratic accountability and weaken electoral choice.
