HARARE, Zimbabwe — Zimbabwe’s parliament has begun debating a controversial constitutional amendment bill that could extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s time in office by two years, intensifying political tensions in a country already facing criticism over democratic freedoms.
Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi introduced the bill on June 2. The proposal would extend presidential, parliamentary and local government terms from five to seven years, meaning Mnangagwa’s current term, due to end in 2028, could run until 2030.
The bill would also change how Zimbabwe chooses its president, replacing direct election by popular vote with selection by lawmakers in a joint sitting of parliament. Supporters say the proposal would reduce election-related tensions and support long-term stability, but critics argue it would weaken voters’ power and concentrate authority in the hands of the ruling party.
Mnangagwa’s ZANU-PF party dominates both houses of parliament, giving the bill a strong chance of passing. Reuters reported that the government expects the legislative process to conclude within a month.
The 83-year-old president has ruled Zimbabwe since 2017, when longtime leader Robert Mugabe was ousted after nearly four decades in power. Under the current constitution, Mnangagwa is expected to leave office in 2028 after completing two five-year terms.
Opposition parties, civil society groups, war veterans and constitutional lawyers have criticised the proposed amendment, saying such a major change should require a national referendum. Some opponents have already taken the matter to the Constitutional Court, arguing that the proposal violates democratic safeguards and unlawfully extends the president’s mandate.
Government supporters reject those claims, saying the two-term limit would remain in place even if the length of each term changes from five to seven years. They argue that the amendment is part of broader constitutional reform and not a personal project for Mnangagwa.
The debate comes amid growing unease over Zimbabwe’s political direction. Critics say opposition activists, journalists and government opponents continue to face harassment, arrests and intimidation. The government denies suppressing dissent and says it is committed to constitutional rule.
If approved, the bill would mark one of the most significant changes to Zimbabwe’s political system since the 2013 constitution. For supporters, it offers continuity. For critics, it risks weakening democratic accountability and extending presidential power without a direct public mandate.
