Zimbabwe’s Parliament has approved a contentious Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, which seeks to extend the presidential and parliamentary terms from five to seven years. The bill passed with the support of 35 opposition Members of Parliament who voted alongside the ruling Zanu PF, allowing it to clear a crucial hurdle despite widespread criticism from opponents. Critics argue that this legislative move is designed to allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in power until 2030 without facing elections, consolidating his grip on the country’s political landscape.
Key Players Involved
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa: The current Zimbabwean President, whose term could be extended by the new bill.
- Zimbabwean Parliament: The legislative body that passed the Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3.
- Zanu PF: Zimbabwe’s ruling party, which championed the bill.
- Opposition MPs: Thirty-five opposition members who voted in favor of the bill, drawing fierce criticism.
Event Timeline
- June 18, 2026: Thirty-five opposition MPs vote with Zanu PF to pass CAB3 in the National Assembly.
- June 18, 2026: News outlets report on the passing of the bill to extend the president’s term.
- February 2026: The controversial Constitutional Amendment Bill is gazetted, proposing the extension of presidential and parliamentary terms.
