MNANGAGWA’S PLAN TO EXTEND RULE GAINS MOMENTUM

President Emmerson Mnangagwa seems to be preparing to extend his rule beyond the constitutional limit of two terms. This plan is now moving forward, with Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi beginning the legal steps to make it happen.

When Mnangagwa first came to power through a coup in November 2017, he called himself a “constitutionalist.” However, despite denying that he wants to hold on to power, recent developments suggest otherwise. Mnangagwa is looking to extend his term from 2028 to 2030, or even beyond.

Last October, during the Zanu PF annual conference in Bulawayo, party members discussed this plan. They agreed that extending Mnangagwa’s rule is possible if he chooses to do so. However, they admitted it would be a very difficult task, and some think it may be impossible to achieve.

Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi spoke about this matter in an interview with The Sunday Mail. He explained that Zanu PF’s resolutions are not made by one person but are based on consultations with party members from local districts to provincial levels. These ideas are then discussed at the party’s conference.

Ziyambi said, “The resolutions are a result of what people in the party want. After the conference adopts the resolutions, each ministry looks at the issues raised. If new laws are needed, the ministries start the process of making those laws.”

For the constitutional amendment to happen, two referenda will be required. Ziyambi described the steps involved in making such a change:

“First, the Cabinet will consider the principles of the amendment. Once approved, the Attorney-General’s office will draft a Bill. There will also be nationwide consultations to gather input for the drafting process. After the Bill is written, it will go to the Cabinet Committee on Legislation for review. Then, it will be sent to Parliament for gazetting.”

He added that any constitutional amendment, including the one to allow Mnangagwa to stay in power, will follow these steps. While Ziyambi did not provide specific details, he said the process will reflect the people’s wishes.

The idea of extending Mnangagwa’s rule has sparked mixed reactions. Some believe it is a strategic move to ensure continuity in leadership, while others see it as a way to undermine the constitution. The ruling party argues that the grassroots members are the ones driving this idea.

Ziyambi emphasized that the process starts with the people. “The issues come from the grassroots, through districts and provinces, and are finally adopted at the conference. These resolutions then shape government policy and action,” he explained.

However, critics argue that extending Mnangagwa’s rule would weaken Zimbabwe’s democracy. They believe the current two-term limit should be respected to ensure accountability and prevent the concentration of power.

Ziyambi insists that the legal process will be followed if the amendment is to be made. He said, “The government will not act outside the law. The proper steps will be taken to give effect to what the people want.”

As things stand, the plan to extend Mnangagwa’s rule is only in the early stages. Whether it will succeed depends on many factors, including public opinion, parliamentary approval, and the outcome of referenda.

While the Zanu PF party claims this is the will of the people, some Zimbabweans question whether this is truly a grassroots initiative or a top-down decision disguised as public demand.

The coming months will reveal how this plan unfolds and whether Zimbabwe’s political landscape is set for yet another shift. For now, the spotlight remains on Mnangagwa and the legal steps being taken to secure his extended rule.

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