Zimbabwe’s lower house of Parliament has passed a controversial bill that seeks to extend the presidential term from five to seven years and effectively end direct popular elections for the head of state. The legislation, known as the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) bill, or CAB3, passed with 216 votes in favor, surpassing the two-thirds supermajority required for constitutional amendments. This move could allow sitting President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in power until 2030, delaying the country’s next election originally slated for 2028. Critics argue that shifting the power to elect a president from a direct popular vote to selection by Members of Parliament (MPs) detaches the political choice from the will of ordinary citizens.
Key Players Involved
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa: Current President of Zimbabwe, whose term could be extended by the bill.
- Zimbabwean Parliament (MPs): Passed the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) bill.
- ZANU-PF party: The ruling political party, which controls the Senate and is expected to ensure the bill’s smooth passage.
Event Timeline
- June 22, 2026: The Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) bill passed through the lower house of Parliament.
- Following passage in lower house: The bill is set to go before the 80-member Senate, the smaller upper house of Parliament, before being signed into law by the president.
