Zimbabwe opposition leaders have accused the government of orchestrating a constitutional “coup” as the cabinet greenlit amendments enabling President Emmerson Mnangagwa to prolong his tenure in power. The approved revisions, endorsed by the cabinet on Tuesday, entail an extension of the presidential term to seven years. These changes align with the ruling Zanu-PF’s decision that Mnangagwa should remain in office for a minimum of two years beyond the conclusion of his current term in 2028.
Additionally, the amendments propose the elimination of general presidential elections, granting authority to parliament for the selection of the president. Although the amendments are slated for presentation to the parliament, where Zanu-PF holds significant sway, the opposition contends that a national referendum should also be required.
Opposition figure Job Sikhala denounced the ongoing process in Zimbabwe as an incumbent-led maneuver to extend his term without popular consent, characterizing it as a form of coup, according to remarks provided to AFP.