By A Correspondent | Zimbabwe’s ruling party, ZANU PF, has resolved to push for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in office until 2030, effectively seeking a fourth term for the leader despite conditions for Zimbabwe’s re-entry into the Commonwealth that limit Mnangagwa to two terms. The move risks derailing Zimbabwe’s efforts to reintegrate into the global community.
Provinces Back Fourth Term
ZANU PF provinces, including Harare, Masvingo, and Mashonaland East, have reaffirmed their calls for Mnangagwa to stay in power beyond 2028, insisting that his leadership is essential for completing ongoing national projects under the party’s “Vision 2030.” The resolutions were reportedly adopted during the party’s Annual National People’s Conference.
Addressing inter-district meetings, ZANU PF officials emphasized the importance of constitutional amendments to enable the extension.
Cde Charles Tavengwa, the party’s Secretary for Education, Research, and Ideology, told members in Harare that the decision to extend Mnangagwa’s term had been universally adopted by provinces.
“It is now about how do we achieve that—whether it’s through the amendment of the national constitution. If that has to be done, so be it,” he said.
Amending the Constitution
Harare provincial chairman Cde Godwills Masimirembwa echoed similar sentiments, underscoring the willingness of the party to amend the constitution to legally extend Mnangagwa’s presidency.
“The resolution was adopted at the conference, and as Harare province, we will continue to call on President Mnangagwa to accept the people’s wishes. The good thing is that Cde Chinamasa [ZANU PF Secretary for Legal Affairs] has indicated that it is possible to amend the constitution to extend the President’s term lawfully,” said Masimirembwa.
Other provinces, including Mashonaland East and Masvingo, reiterated their commitment to Mnangagwa’s leadership, stressing that his vision must not be disrupted by term limits. Cde Daniel Garwe of Mashonaland East stated, “The President has a vision, and he needs support, loyalty, and endurance to see it through. Vision 2030 has a destination, and the President must lead us there.”
Commonwealth Implications
Zimbabwe’s potential re-entry into the Commonwealth is contingent on the country adhering to democratic principles, including respecting constitutional term limits. Mnangagwa’s presidency, which is already in its third term, violates these conditions, raising serious concerns about the country’s international commitments.
Observers warn that extending Mnangagwa’s rule risks isolating Zimbabwe further. The Commonwealth, a group of 56 member states, has previously cited electoral transparency and adherence to constitutional limits as key requirements for Zimbabwe’s re-admission after its 2003 departure under former president Robert Mugabe.
Political Fallout
Critics of ZANU PF’s move argue that the push for a fourth term undermines constitutionalism and democratic processes. Opposition parties have labeled the resolutions a blatant power grab that prioritizes party loyalty over the rule of law.
Meanwhile, ZANU PF officials maintain that extending Mnangagwa’s term is in the national interest, claiming it will provide stability and continuity for ongoing development projects.
What Lies Ahead
If ZANU PF proceeds with constitutional amendments, it would solidify Mnangagwa’s grip on power but could come at the expense of international goodwill and Zimbabwe’s re-engagement with global institutions like the Commonwealth. The decision sets the stage for a contentious political and legal battle as the country approaches its next electoral cycle.
For now, all eyes are on the ruling party’s next steps and the potential ramifications for Zimbabwe’s political landscape and international standing.