Zimbabwe Constitutional Amendment Extends Mnangagwa's Rule to 2030, Sparking Civil Rights Concerns

Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa, 83, has signed Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3) into law, extending presidential and parliamentary terms from five to seven years and moving the next elections from 2028 to 2030. The amendment also shifts presidential selection from direct popular vote to parliamentary appointment. This contradicts Mnangagwa's previous assurances that he would not remain in office beyond 2028. Civil society groups, including Citizen Watch Zimbabwe (CWZ), have raised alarms over democratic backsliding. The arrest of NDWG chairperson Bhekimpilo Mbedzi following a peaceful protest has intensified fears of state intimidation. Critics argue the amendment weakens constitutional order, while supporters claim it ensures continuity and stability. The law was pushed through despite broad public criticism from church leaders, retired generals, and lawyers.