Zimbabwe cabinet approves draft law to extend Mnangagwa's presidential terms
Zimbabwe's cabinet has approved draft legislation to extend presidential terms, paving the way for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to potentially remain in power until 2030 or beyond, the BBC reports. The move formalizes what has been referred to as Mnangagwa's '2030 ambition,' a plan that has been the subject of intense political speculation and debate within the country.
The proposed law has drawn criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups who view it as an authoritarian power grab that undermines democratic norms and the country's constitution. Mnangagwa, who came to power in 2017 following a military coup that ousted longtime leader Robert Mugabe, had previously pledged to respect term limits. The draft legislation now faces further parliamentary and legal hurdles, but its cabinet approval signals the government's determination to push the measure through despite domestic and international opposition.
The proposed law has drawn criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups who view it as an authoritarian power grab that undermines democratic norms and the country's constitution. Mnangagwa, who came to power in 2017 following a military coup that ousted longtime leader Robert Mugabe, had previously pledged to respect term limits. The draft legislation now faces further parliamentary and legal hurdles, but its cabinet approval signals the government's determination to push the measure through despite domestic and international opposition.