Zimbabwean lawmakers have approved a contentious Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, which seeks to replace direct presidential elections with a parliamentary vote and extend presidential and parliamentary terms from five to seven years. The bill passed the National Assembly on Thursday, June 18, 2026, with 216 votes in favour and 42 against, and is now expected to proceed to the Senate where it is also anticipated to secure the required two-thirds majority for constitutional amendments.
The proposed changes have ignited a fierce political debate across the country. Supporters, including some from the ruling Zimbabwe African National Union–Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF), argue that the amendments will promote policy continuity, political stability, and enhance government accountability. However, opponents view the bill as a direct threat to democratic accountability, a move to further entrench the ruling party’s grip on power, and a means to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s tenure beyond the current constitutional limits.
Critics, including prominent jurists and liberation war veterans, have labeled the bill as “nonsensical” and warned of widespread regional instability if it is enacted. There are also allegations that the consultation process for the bill was marred by intimidation and violence against opponents. Human rights activists have approached the High Court to stop the enactment of the bill without a national referendum, though many Zimbabweans have expressed a lack of confidence in the judiciary.
Key Players Involved
- Zimbabwean Parliament: Approved Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3.
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa: The bill is seen by critics as a way to extend his time in office.
- Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi: The bill’s sponsor, who rejects criticism that the changes undermine constitutional order.
- Ruling ZANU-PF Party: Controls both the National Assembly and the Senate, strengthening the bill’s chances of passing.
- Opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC): Some members voted for the bill, while others, along with civil society, strongly oppose it.
- Professor Lovemore Madhuku: Prominent Zimbabwean jurist representing war veterans opposing the bill.
Event Timeline
- June 3, 2026: Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi speaks in parliament regarding the bill.
- June 18, 2026: Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 passes the National Assembly with 216 votes for and 42 against.
- June 19, 2026: News of the bill’s passage and subsequent backlash is widely reported.
- Currently: The bill moves to the Senate for further approval.
