Zimbabwe President Mnangagwa's Term Extension Bill Advances in Parliament

Zimbabwe’s ruling ZANU‑PF party has tabled a constitutional amendment bill (CAB3) in Parliament to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s tenure from 2028 to 2030 and replace direct presidential elections with a parliamentary vote. The bill was introduced on 2 June 2026 by Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi and is expected to pass owing to the party’s two‑thirds parliamentary majority, despite anticipated legal challenges.

Opposition leader Nelson Chamisa condemned the proposal, saying Mnangagwa is “digging his own grave” and accusing legislators of corruption, including alleged $31 million bribes to secure support. Deputy commander‑in‑chief Constantino Chiwenga has also signaled opposition, while retired generals and civil servants have publicly protested. The amendment would bypass the constitutional requirement for a referendum, raising concerns over democratic accountability.

The government aims to complete the legislative process by the end of June 2026, while opposition figures and activists vow to challenge the bill in court and mobilise citizens against what they describe as a national error.