The Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiZC) has condemned the ruling party’s attempts to amend the Constitution to enable President Emmerson Mnangagwa to seek a third term, labeling the move illegal. This criticism comes amid reports of ZANU PF engaging in covert political maneuvers to extend Mnangagwa’s tenure beyond the constitutionally mandated limit.
Mnangagwa, 81, is currently serving his second and final term, having first been elected in 2018. The Zimbabwean Constitution permits a president to serve a maximum of two terms.
In a statement titled “Zim Constitution @11: Strengthening and Defending the Gains,” CiZC expressed grave concerns over the ruling party’s efforts to amend the presidential term limit. “Lately, calls by the ruling party to push for amendments that will remove the two-term presidential limit and allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to run for a third term are illegal and unfortunate,” the coalition stated.
“The Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition reiterates that a constitution should be a sacred, living, and binding document regardless of who is in power,” CiZC added, emphasizing that tampering with the Constitution for personal gain undermines democratic values and betrays the supreme law, which was overwhelmingly endorsed by Zimbabweans.
The CiZC highlighted that any attempts to alter the Constitution for the benefit of the political elite erode the country’s democratic foundations. “The Constitution of Zimbabwe should not in any way be abused for personal interests as it is meant to protect democratic values and guarantee accountable governance,” the coalition stressed.
In collaboration with other pro-democratic forces, CiZC is mobilizing citizens to resist illegal amendments, the push for a third term, and reported attempts to postpone the 2028 elections to extend Mnangagwa’s stay in office. “Grassroots mobilization is critical to build awareness of the Constitution, and it is through an informed citizenry that the people of Zimbabwe can hold duty bearers to account in terms of implementation of the Constitution and respect for fundamental rights,” CiZC noted.
The coalition envisions a grassroots-based platform that unites diverse stakeholders, including civil society organizations, war veterans, residents’ associations, youth groups, women’s groups, workers’ associations, the church, representatives from the informal sector, and other progressive forces. “The coalition is convinced that there is an imperative need for a critical force promoting democratic values, protecting human rights, and advancing social justice in Zimbabwe,” CiZC declared.
ZANU PF’s director of information, Farai Marapira, was unavailable for comment at the time of publication. However, attempts by the ruling party to secure a third term for Mnangagwa face significant constitutional challenges. According to Section 91(2) of the Zimbabwean Constitution, even if an amendment is made, Mnangagwa would not be eligible for a third term as the change cannot benefit the incumbent.
Section 91(2) explicitly states that one is disqualified from election as president if they have already held office under this Constitution for two terms. This provision was designed to prevent incumbents from extending their stay in power through constitutional amendments.
Mnangagwa has publicly stated in the past that he would not seek to amend the Constitution to prolong his tenure. However, the current maneuvers by ZANU PF suggest a shift in strategy. The push for a third term not only threatens the country’s constitutional integrity but also signals a potential regression in Zimbabwe’s democratic progress.
The CiZC’s urgent call for action underscores the importance of safeguarding the Constitution and ensuring that democratic principles are upheld. The coalition’s efforts to build a broad-based movement reflect a commitment to defending the rights and freedoms of Zimbabwean citizens.
The issue of presidential term limits is crucial for maintaining a healthy democracy. Allowing incumbents to extend their terms undermines the principle of regular leadership renewal, which is essential for preventing the concentration of power and fostering political accountability.
The Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition’s stance highlights the broader implications of amending the Constitution for personal gain. Such actions not only compromise the legitimacy of the democratic process but also weaken public trust in governance institutions.
As Zimbabwe navigates this critical juncture, the actions of the ruling party and the response from civil society will shape the country’s democratic trajectory. The Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition’s mobilization efforts are a testament to the resilience of pro-democratic forces in the face of political challenges.
The ongoing debate over presidential term limits serves as a reminder of the importance of constitutional safeguards in preserving democracy. As citizens and stakeholders rally to defend the Constitution, the outcome will determine the future of democratic governance in Zimbabwe.
Source: Newsday
