Written by Lisa Murimi
Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reiterated that he will leave office when his second term ends in 2028, rejecting growing calls within the ruling Zanu-PF party to extend his tenure beyond the constitutional limit.
“I am a constitutionalist. I have my two terms. When they come to an end, the country and the party will move on by electing my successor,” Mnangagwa stated during a televised briefing on Monday.
His remarks follow attempts by Zanu-PF officials to amend the 2013 constitution, which limits presidents to two five-year terms.
In October 2024, the party passed a resolution to scrap term limits, fueling opposition concerns about democratic backsliding.
Supporters argue that Mnangagwa’s leadership has driven economic growth, infrastructure development, and stability, making an extension desirable.
However, the opposition and civil society groups strongly oppose any constitutional changes, warning of potential authoritarianism.
Mnangagwa, 82, came to power in 2017 after the military ousted Robert Mugabe.
While he insists he will step down, critics remain skeptical, pointing to previous constitutional amendments that consolidated his power.
As Zimbabwe approaches 2028, the political landscape remains uncertain, with speculation persisting over whether Zanu-PF will ultimately push to extend Mnangagwa’s rule.
