Zimbabwe's Cabinet Proposes Term Extension for President Mnangagwa

Wed Feb 11 2026 01:17:17 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A controversial new bill in Zimbabwe seeks to allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to extend his presidency until 2030, sparking concerns about governance and public consultation.

Zimbabwe's government has initiated a draft bill that would enable President Emmerson Mnangagwa, currently in office until 2028, to prolong his stay until 2030. The proposed legislation suggests that future presidents be elected by MPs rather than through popular vote, and allows a maximum of two seven-year terms. Opposition voices have raised concerns that any changes could necessitate a public referendum. Mnangagwa, who has faced significant political opposition, previously served as the deputy to Robert Mugabe and has been working on a development agenda for 2030.

Zimbabwe's Cabinet Proposes Term Extension for President Mnangagwa

Zimbabwe's cabinet has approved a draft legislation that would allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa, 83, to potentially extend his term in office until 2030. This legislation proposes a shift in the presidential election process, allowing MPs to elect the president instead of a direct vote by the populace, and increases the maximum term limit to two seven-year terms as opposed to the current five years.

Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi announced that public consultations will take place before the bill proceeds to parliamentary debate. The ruling Zanu-PF party maintains a strong majority in both chambers, raising questions about the openness of the legislative process.

Experts argue that any amendments to term limits would likely require a referendum, emphasizing that such changes cannot retroactively benefit a sitting president. Mnangagwa has faced intense scrutiny as calls for his resignation have been voiced amid disputes over electoral results and governance issues.

Mnangagwa first ascended to power in 2017 following a military coup that removed long-time leader Robert Mugabe. He won his second presidential term in 2023, although the electoral legitimacy remains controversial. Widely regarded for his political cunning, he has been a pivotal figure in Zimbabwe's political environment since the turbulent days following independence.

Hints regarding Mnangagwa's desire to remain in power beyond 2028 have circulated since last year, with supporters rallying behind the slogan 2030 he will still be the leader at Zanu-PF gatherings. Nevertheless, the president has publicly distanced himself from the notion of extending his tenure.

Internal challenges have also emerged for Mnangagwa, especially after the recent death of Blessed Geza, a notable critic within Zanu-PF who had vocally opposed the president's ambitions and accused him of nepotism. His absence leaves a void in internal opposition, even as the government pushes forward with its agenda for the upcoming decade.