Constitutional law expert Lovemore Madhuku stated Parliament lacks the authority to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa's second term beyond 2028. The 22nd ZANU PF National People's Conference in Mutare resolved on Oct. 29 to extend the presidential term from five to seven years, but Madhuku argued the 2013 constitution's two-term limit cannot be altered without a referendum. He explained that Mnangagwa was elected by voters in 2023 for a specific five-year period, and Parliament cannot unilaterally modify this timeframe.
The professor dismissed the party's resolution as premature for legal challenge, stating it remains merely a proposal until formal constitutional amendment procedures begin. ZANU-PF leadership justifies the extension as necessary for continuity, stability, and development goals. Madhuku emphasized that elections must proceed in 2028 regardless of party resolutions, and any constitutional changes affecting presidential term limits require direct approval from the electorate rather than parliamentary action alone.
The professor dismissed the party's resolution as premature for legal challenge, stating it remains merely a proposal until formal constitutional amendment procedures begin. ZANU-PF leadership justifies the extension as necessary for continuity, stability, and development goals. Madhuku emphasized that elections must proceed in 2028 regardless of party resolutions, and any constitutional changes affecting presidential term limits require direct approval from the electorate rather than parliamentary action alone.
