Zimbabwe's Senate has approved the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Bill, a development that could allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in office until 2030.
The Bill sailed through the upper chamber on Wednesday after securing 75 votes in support, comfortably surpassing the two-thirds majority threshold required for constitutional amendments. Four senators opposed the measure, while one abstained.
The vote highlighted the political alliances that have emerged in Parliament since the 2023 elections. Although Zanu PF did not possess enough seats on its own to guarantee passage of the Bill, support from traditional chiefs, representatives of persons with disabilities, and a number of opposition legislators ensured its approval.
Several senators aligned to the faction led by Sengezo Tshabangu were among those who backed the legislation. Tshabangu has played a pivotal role in reshaping the opposition landscape after recalling dozens of Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) legislators from Parliament, a move that altered the balance of power in both the National Assembly and Senate.
Opposition resistance to the Bill was limited. Senators Sesel Zvidzai, Solani Moyo, Meliwe Phuthi and Nonhlanhla Mlotshwa were among the few lawmakers who voted against the proposed constitutional changes.
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Debate on the legislation exposed divisions within the opposition ranks. While some senators strongly rejected the amendments, others expressed reservations but indicated varying degrees of support for specific provisions.
Among the most significant changes contained in the Bill is the extension of presidential terms from five years to seven years. The legislation also introduces a provision allowing future presidents to be elected by Parliament rather than through a direct popular vote.
The Bill now awaits President Mnangagwa's assent before becoming law.
Discussion around extending the President's tenure has been ongoing for several years. Calls from sections of the ruling party advocating for Mnangagwa to remain in office beyond 2028 gained momentum through party resolutions and public campaigns, eventually culminating in the constitutional amendment process.
Mnangagwa assumed office in November 2017 following the removal of former President Robert Mugabe, who had ruled Zimbabwe since independence in 1980.
Supporters of the amendments argue that the reforms will promote continuity, stability and stronger governance structures. Critics, however, contend that the changes weaken democratic safeguards and are primarily designed to prolong Mnangagwa's stay in power.
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