Political tensions are soaring in Zimbabwe as the Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3), aimed at extending the presidential term, undergoes its Second Reading in Parliament. Recent reports indicate a widening rift between allies of President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, adding a dramatic layer to the legislative process. The bill, which seeks to defer elections due in 2028 by two years and extend President Mnangagwa’s term to 2030, has ignited fierce debate among politicians, civil society, and the general populace.
Critics argue that extending presidential terms requires a national referendum, while supporters maintain that Parliament has the authority to approve the changes as the two-term limit would technically remain, albeit with longer terms. The ongoing parliamentary debate on CAB3 is being closely watched, with many questioning whether the bill truly reflects the will of the people or the ambitions of political power.
Key Players Involved
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa: The 83-year-old president whose term the bill seeks to extend to 2030.
- Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi: Introduced the constitutional amendment bill in Parliament.
- Vice President Constantino Chiwenga: Reportedly at odds with Mnangagwa’s allies over the CAB3, indicating internal party divisions.
- Retired Generals: Met with President Mnangagwa regarding the Constitutional Amendment Bill, suggesting significant military interest in the political developments.
Event Timeline
- June 2, 2026: Zimbabwe’s Justice Minister introduced the constitutional amendment bill in Parliament.
- June 3, 2026: Parliament began debating the Second Reading of the Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3).
- June 4, 2026: Reports emerged of a widening rift between allies of Mnangagwa and Chiwenga over CAB3, with retired generals also meeting the President.
