Efforts are underway in Zimbabwe to amend the constitution, extending the terms of the President and legislators by at least five years, according to Zanu PF’s Energy Mutodi. This proposal, which recently surfaced in the media, indicates collaboration between the ruling party and a faction of the opposition. Official approval is pending from the Speaker of Parliament.
In Zimbabwe, discussions have emerged regarding a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at extending the current terms of office for President Emmerson Mnangagwa, as well as members of parliament and local councilors, by a minimum of five years. This initiative comes as the terms of these officials are set to expire in 2028. Energy Mutodi, a parliamentarian from the ruling Zanu PF party, confirmed that this proposed motion was unintentionally disclosed to the media and is part of ongoing efforts involving both Zanu PF and a faction of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC). According to Mutodi, the circulating draft motion on social media is genuine and remains in progress, pending official endorsement from the Speaker of Parliament, Jacob Mudenda.
The political landscape of Zimbabwe has been characterized by ongoing tensions and power struggles, particularly between the ruling Zanu PF party and the opposition. The proposal to amend the constitution to extend the terms of elected officials raises significant concerns regarding democratic governance and accountability. Historically, constitutional amendments in Zimbabwe have played a critical role in influencing political stability and the distribution of power. As the country approaches the 2028 electoral period, such proposals are likely to ignite public debate and scrutiny surrounding the integrity of its electoral processes.
In summary, there is a current movement within Zimbabwe’s political framework to extend the terms of government officials, ostensibly to secure stability. The leaked proposal by Zanu PF may indicate a strategic partnership with the CCC, prompting widespread discussions regarding its implications for democracy. It will be essential to monitor how this discussion evolves, particularly as it awaits formal endorsement from parliamentary leadership.
Original Source: constitutionnet.org
