Harare, Zimbabwe – Allegations of US$10,000 bribery have sent shockwaves through the Zimbabwean Parliament, intensifying controversy ahead of a crucial vote on Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3). Reports indicate that legislators were allegedly offered significant sums to support the proposed reforms, which critics argue threaten democratic accountability and constitutional safeguards. The bill aims to reshape Zimbabwe’s political future, notably by proposing an extension of presidential and parliamentary terms from five to seven years, a move perceived by many as an attempt to keep President Emmerson Mnangagwa in power until 2030 without facing elections.
Key Players Involved
- Zimbabwean Parliament: Institution at the center of the bribery allegations and the impending vote on CAB3.
- Legislators: Accused of receiving US$10,000 bribes to influence their vote on the Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3.
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa: The proposed constitutional amendments are seen by critics as a mechanism to potentially extend his tenure until 2030.
- Civil Society & Opposition Groups: Have expressed strong opposition to CAB3, citing threats to democratic accountability and constitutional safeguards.
Event Timeline
- June 12, 2026: Allegations of US$10,000 bribes surface, rocking the Zimbabwean Parliament ahead of the CAB3 vote.
- February 2026: Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 was gazetted, initiating the process for the controversial reforms.
