Zimbabwe’s political landscape is witnessing a surprising turn as the main opposition party appears open to supporting calls for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to extend his tenure by two years, potentially remaining in office until 2030. This proposed extension would require a national referendum, as Mnangagwa’s constitutionally mandated second and final term is set to end in 2028.
In October, Mnangagwa declined a proposal from his party, the Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF), to extend his rule. ZANU-PF has governed Zimbabwe uninterrupted since the country gained independence in 1980. However, remarks from Sengezo Tshabangu, leader of the opposition in parliament and a member of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), may bolster the ruling party’s ambitions.
Speaking during a visit to Mnangagwa’s farm, 218 kilometers (135 miles) from Harare, Tshabangu hinted at potential support, stating: “If Zimbabweans approve your continued leadership and are satisfied with it, then let it proceed.” This unexpected position from a key opposition figure has ignited debates about the opposition’s shifting priorities.
Civil society organizations have expressed alarm over the implications of this development. The Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN), a coalition of 37 non-governmental organizations, issued a statement condemning the discussions surrounding a possible delay in the 2028 elections.
“Segments of the opposition now appear to align with the ruling party in advocating for an extension, raising serious questions about the motivations behind this shift and its impact on democratic processes,” ZESN warned.
The prospect of extending Mnangagwa’s term has reignited concerns about Zimbabwe’s democratic trajectory, with critics fearing it could erode public confidence in electoral integrity. While proponents argue that stability and continuity are necessary for economic recovery, detractors view the move as a dangerous precedent that undermines constitutional governance.
The unfolding events suggest a political realignment that could redefine Zimbabwe’s future, leaving citizens and observers questioning the implications for the country’s fragile democracy.