Zimbabwe constitutional law professors debate whether the ruling Zanu PF party can extend presidential terms without referendums. Professor Jonathan Moyo argues Parliament can lawfully change term length from five to seven years through a two-thirds majority, citing a 2021 Constitutional Court ruling that distinguished term limits from term duration.
Opposition politician David Coltart counters that extending presidential tenure requires two national referendums under constitutional protections. He maintains that any extension affecting an incumbent president must undergo public votes beyond parliamentary approval.
Dr. Justice Mavedzenge identified another constitutional pathway where President Mnangagwa could resign before completing three years of his current term. This would trigger provisions allowing a vice president to serve temporarily while Zanu PF nominates a replacement, potentially enabling Mnangagwa to remain eligible for future elections.
Political analyst Mxolisi Ncube warned that the maneuvers represent creeping authoritarianism, exploiting constitutional loopholes. Mavedzenge emphasized that constitutional protections remain vulnerable without an independent judiciary, a robust civil society, and a strong opposition infrastructure to defend democratic principles.
Opposition politician David Coltart counters that extending presidential tenure requires two national referendums under constitutional protections. He maintains that any extension affecting an incumbent president must undergo public votes beyond parliamentary approval.
Dr. Justice Mavedzenge identified another constitutional pathway where President Mnangagwa could resign before completing three years of his current term. This would trigger provisions allowing a vice president to serve temporarily while Zanu PF nominates a replacement, potentially enabling Mnangagwa to remain eligible for future elections.
Political analyst Mxolisi Ncube warned that the maneuvers represent creeping authoritarianism, exploiting constitutional loopholes. Mavedzenge emphasized that constitutional protections remain vulnerable without an independent judiciary, a robust civil society, and a strong opposition infrastructure to defend democratic principles.
