Zimbabwe is reportedly on the brink of a significant political upheaval, with sources indicating that President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s removal is imminent. This comes as a high-stakes power struggle intensifies between the President and a faction led by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, backed by key military generals. The crisis centers around Mnangagwa’s alleged attempts to secure an unconstitutional third term in office, a move that has drawn widespread condemnation from various sectors, including the military and church leaders.
In a dramatic development, a delegation of prominent church leaders reportedly visited President Mnangagwa on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, engaging in discussions aimed at persuading him to abandon his constitutional amendment plans. The visit underscores the gravity of the situation, as religious figures rarely intervene so directly in political impasses of this nature. According to reports, the generals have explicitly informed President Mnangagwa that he cannot pursue a third term and should not alter the constitution without a national referendum.
The military’s stance has been made clear through recent statements, with retired generals publicly warning against the term extension and even alleging a substantial $31 million bribery fund for Members of Parliament to support the controversial Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3. This bill, if passed, would allow parliament to elect the president and extend the term of office from five to seven years, bypassing a public vote. The growing pressure suggests that a leadership change is actively being orchestrated behind the scenes, with Vice President Chiwenga positioned as a potential successor.
Key Players Involved
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa: Facing immense pressure to step down amidst allegations of attempting to secure an unconstitutional third term.
- Vice President Constantino Chiwenga: Reportedly gaining control of the military and intelligence, positioned as a key figure in the potential leadership transition.
- Zimbabwean Military Generals: Have issued statements and warnings against Mnangagwa’s third-term bid, asserting their support for constitutionalism.
- Church Leaders: Intervened directly, visiting Mnangagwa to discuss the constitutional crisis and urge him to reconsider his actions.
- Members of Parliament (MPs): Under scrutiny for their potential role in passing Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, with allegations of bribery surfacing.
Event Timeline
- June 2, 2026: Reports emerge of military generals asserting control and indicating Mnangagwa has lost authority.
- June 3, 2026: Church leaders visit President Mnangagwa to discuss the constitutional crisis and his third-term ambitions.
- June 3, 2026: Retired generals warn MPs against backing Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, alleging a $31 million bribery fund.
- June 3, 2026: Mnangagwa’s removal is reported as imminent, with a leadership change actively taking place.
