The Government of Zimbabwe has officially opposed the Constitutional Court application filed by Moreprecision Muzadzi and Pardon Gambakwe, which sought to challenge a political resolution extending President Mnangagwa’s term of office.
In papers filed on November 26, 2025, Attorney General Virginia Mabhiza—representing herself, the President, and the Minister of Justice—raised several preliminary points arguing that the application is “fatally defective” and should be dismissed.
Key Arguments Raised by the State:
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The Case is Premature: The primary defense is that the case is not “ripe” for adjudication. The Attorney General argues that the application is based on “speculation and conjecture” because the political party resolution in question has not yet been given legal effect, nor has any constitutional amendment process formally begun.
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Procedural Errors: The State argues that the applicants failed to meet the strict requirements for “Direct Access” to the Constitutional Court. They contend that the applicants should have either approached the High Court first or provided stronger justification for why it is in the interests of justice for the highest court to hear the matter immediately.
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Missing Parties: The opposition notes that while the case challenges a resolution made by a specific political party, the applicants failed to cite that party as a respondent in the lawsuit.
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Unified Response: The opposing affidavit was deposed by Attorney General Virginia Mabiza, who stated she was authorized to speak on behalf of President Mnangagwa (1st Respondent) and the Minister of Justice (3rd Respondent) as well.
The Respondents have asked the Court to dismiss the application entirely, maintaining that a political resolution cannot be challenged in court before it enters the legislative process.
MOREPRECISION MUZADZI 1st 3rd and 6th RESPONDENTS NOTICE OF OPPOSITION_0001_signed
