Rising Opposition to Constitutional Amendments in Zimbabwe

Fears are growing in opposition circles in Zimbabwe that the ruling Zanu-PF party is making a new grab for power as it presses ahead with constitutional amendments aimed at giving parliament – rather than voters – the right to elect the president and to extend his term from five to seven years.

The proposed shake-up that will lead to presidential elections – held since 1990 – being scrapped; parliamentary and presidential terms being extended from five to seven years; parliamentary elections scheduled for 2028 being delayed to 2030; President Emmerson Mnangagwa, whose second and final term is due to end in 2028, remaining in office until 2030; and the new parliament electing the next President.