Zimbabwe President Seeks to Extend His Rule Until 2030

Thu Feb 12 2026 00:34:45 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Zimbabwe's cabinet has proposed new laws that could allow President Mnangagwa to remain in power until 2030. The changes would alter how presidents are chosen and their term limits, stirring controversy as legal challenges loom.

Zimbabwe's government is drafting legislation that may extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa's term in office to 2030, a proposal that has ignited debate over democratic processes. The changes would replace direct voting with parliamentary selection, allowing for longer terms in office. Critics argue that the amendments could violate constitutional mandates for a referendum and prevent current leaders from benefiting from such changes. Mnangagwa, who has faced both support and opposition within his own party, is determined to push through his developmental agenda amid a backdrop of political contention.

Zimbabwe's cabinet has approved draft legislation that would allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa, 83, to extend his stay in office until at least 2030. The proposed law suggests that presidents would be elected by MPs instead of the public and may serve for two seven-year terms rather than the current five-year maximum.

Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi indicated that public consultations would occur before the bill goes to parliament, although both chambers are primarily controlled by the ruling Zanu-PF party. Legal challenges may arise as constitutional experts argue a national referendum should accompany any changes to term limits, especially since the amendments may not legally benefit a sitting president.

Mnangagwa, who assumed power in 2017 following a military coup against long-time leader Robert Mugabe, faces a critical juncture as his second elected term is due to end in 2028. As supporters chant slogans promoting his continued leadership, internal party tensions loom, with some critics opposing his ambition to extend his rule.

Zanu-PF recently expelled prominent critic Blessed Geza, known as 'Bombshell,' who had publicly criticized Mnangagwa's plans. Following Geza's recent death, his calls for opposition against the president linger as the government aims to reinforce governance and promote political stability leading up to 2030.