Constitutional Expert Predicts Challenges for Mnangagwa’s Third-Term Ambitions

Constitutional law expert Lovemore Madhuku has stated that attempts by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s supporters to secure a third term for him are unlikely to succeed and will face significant challenges.

In a recent interview with Open Parly, Madhuku described the efforts to extend Mnangagwa’s presidency as a difficult and complex undertaking. He explained:

“I would say it’s almost impossible. Legally, it’s possible to follow the necessary steps, but when you examine those steps closely, you realize the task is nearly unachievable.”

Madhuku outlined the process involved in amending the Constitution to allow a third term, starting with the publication of the first bill to propose the change. He said:

“After that, the public will have 90 days to debate it. Then it goes to Parliament, where it needs a two-thirds majority in both the National Assembly and the Senate. Following that, a referendum would be required.”

He noted the challenges in securing the necessary support:

“During the 90-day debate, it will become evident that most Zimbabweans will not support this. Even in Parliament, we can’t assume that the two-thirds majority in ZANU PF will automatically translate into a successful vote. If they manage to pass it, it will still go to a referendum.”

Madhuku emphasized that the referendum would ultimately be a straightforward decision about Mnangagwa’s future:

“Voters would simply be asked whether they want the President to continue or prefer him to step down after his 10 years. Many people who respect the President would likely prefer him to rest after serving his term. So, calling it possible seems a bit optimistic.”

At the 2024 ZANU PF Annual People’s Conference in Bulawayo, a resolution was passed to extend Mnangagwa’s term beyond 2028. However, Mnangagwa has rejected this idea, affirming his commitment to following the constitutional term limits.

Recently, Mnangagwa hosted ZANU PF legislators and members of a splinter faction of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) led by Sengezo Tshabangu at his Pricabe Farm in Kwekwe. This gathering is believed to be part of a broader strategy by ZANU PF to pursue constitutional amendments, leveraging Tshabangu’s group to help secure support for the referendum and the necessary constitutional changes.

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