Zimbabwe’s Cabinet Approves Legislation to Extend Presidential Rule. Harare, Zimbabwe — Zimbabwe’s cabinet has approved draft legislation that could extend the presidential term from five years to seven and alter the election process, allowing President Emmerson Mnangagwa to potentially remain in power until 2030, according to local reports.
The proposed amendments to the constitution have raised concerns about the country’s democratic trajectory.
The legislation seeks to change the election process, with the president to be elected by parliament rather than through a direct popular vote, sources say. These changes come amidst a backdrop of political uncertainty in Zimbabwe, which has a history of political turmoil and authoritarian rule.
The ruling ZANU — PF party has been in power since independence in 1980, and Mnangagwa came to power in 2017 following a military coup that overthrew Robert Mugabe.
The Africa Business Insider reports that the proposed changes are concerning and suggest a shift away from democratic principles.
The Africa Report and Facebook sources emphasize the political uncertainty following the announcement of the proposed amendments.
The Zimbabwean reports that Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi claimed the proposed legislation is not an amendment to the constitution but an attempt to introduce a new constitution without a referendum, indicating a stark contrast in perspective.
The potential impact of these constitutional amendments on the political landscape and democratic processes in Zimbabwe remains unclear. How the opposition and civil society will react to these proposed changes is also a matter of concern.
The expected timeline for the consideration and passage of this legislation by Parliament is not yet known.
The situation remains developing, with further details expected to emerge as the legislation progresses through the legislative process. Officials have not yet commented on the potential implications of the proposed amendments.
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Source: Africa.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
