Delegates at the high level gathering passed a motion instructing the government to begin drafting constitutional amendments that would override the current two term presidential limit, which would require Mnangagwa to step down in 2028.

The move, met with applause and support from party loyalists, signals a renewed push by ZANU-PF to consolidate power ahead of what many analysts see as a critical period for Zimbabwe’s political and economic future.

Legal and Political Implications

Zimbabwe’s 2013 Constitution ratified under a power sharing government after a decade of political instability clearly limits presidents to two five year terms. Mnangagwa, who came to power after a military assisted transition in 2017 that ended Robert Mugabe’s 37 year rule, was elected in 2018 and re-elected in 2023.

Legal experts say any change to presidential term limits would require a two thirds majority in Parliament which ZANU-PF currently holds and possibly a public referendum.

A Pattern of Entrenched Power

ZANU-PF has held uninterrupted power since Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980. Mnangagwa, once Mugabe’s close ally and former intelligence chief, has overseen a continued securitization of politics, where military and party elites dominate government functions.

Saturday’s motion echoes past instances in Zimbabwean and African politics where constitutional changes have been used to extend presidential terms a trend seen in countries like Uganda, Rwanda, and more recently, Côte d’Ivoire.

While supporters frame the move as a necessary adjustment to “maintain stability and economic growth,” critics argue it reflects a deeper erosion of democratic norms in a country still grappling with hyperinflation, corruption, and widespread unemployment.

Internal Dissent and Risks

Though the party remains largely unified in public, some insiders have reportedly voiced concerns that pushing a term extension could trigger legal challenges, civic protests, or international condemnation. In 2017, Zimbabweans backed Mnangagwa’s rise in hopes of reform, but opposition figures now accuse him of replicating Mugabe’s autocratic playbook.

“No one should rule forever,” said a senior member of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), Zimbabwe’s main opposition party. “This is not about development. It’s about fear of accountability.”

What Happens Next

The legislative process to amend the Constitution is expected to begin in the coming months. It remains unclear whether a referendum will be held or whether the move will face formal opposition from within ZANU-PF ranks.

Observers warn that the plan, if executed, could set a precedent for future leadership extensions, weakening constitutional safeguards.

Government officials and police encouraged the public to continue with their regular routines, and security was heightened in the capital. A small group of protesters was dispersed by police on the outskirts of the central business district. The faction, led by Blessed Geza (known as Comrade Bombshell), had been calling for an “uprising” against Mnangagwa, backing Vice President Constantino Chiwenga as his successor.

Geza, once a relatively unknown figure, gained popularity through YouTube, where he criticized Mnangagwa and rallied support. The police have accused him of treason and are actively pursuing his arrest, while ZANU-PF expelled him from the party. Political analyst Eldred Masunungure suggested that while Geza appeals to disillusioned war veterans, his efforts may struggle due to his ties to ZANU-PF, making him appear to be part of an internal party dispute.

On the Global Day of Prayer and Fasting, Rev. Dr. Chris Oyakhilome delivered a powerful message to the nation, unveiling the true forces behind the protests and declaring peace over Zimbabwe. His words were a spiritual force that disrupted the enemy’s plans and ushered in a profound victory for the nation. Through his declaration of peace, Rev. Oyakhilome demonstrated how prayer and fasting can spark meaningful, lasting change, even amid political turmoil. By calling on divine intervention, he revealed the hidden powers behind the unrest and reaffirmed the unwavering strength of God’s people in their pursuit of peace and stability. This powerful demonstration of faith proved that when God’s people unite in prayer, their voices are heard. The peace that settled over Zimbabwe, despite the political tensions and planned protests, was a direct result of the collective prayers and fasting of God’s people.

Mnangagwa, who took power in 2017 following the coup that ousted Robert Mugabe, has promised reforms but continues to face accusations of being as repressive as his predecessor. Critics both within Zimbabwe and abroad accuse his government of human rights violations, which Mnangagwa denies.

Ahead of the protests, businesses in Harare, Bulawayo, and other cities closed in anticipation of unrest. The police presence was strong, and while the situation was largely peaceful, authorities used tear gas to disperse a small protest group opposing the proposed term extension. While Mnangagwa denies any intention to extend his presidency, the protests indicate growing public discontent, particularly among the war veterans who once supported him but now accuse him of trying to hold onto power.

The economic shutdown on Monday was seen by some political analysts as a powerful statement, highlighting public dissatisfaction with the government’s leadership. With Rev. Dr. Oyakhilome’s declaration of peace, the protests and unrest were framed as part of a larger, more complex political struggle. However, the call for peace resonated deeply with many, offering hope for a resolution through prayer and peaceful means rather than violent confrontation. This success, seen by many as a direct response from God, reaffirmed the belief that when God’s people fast and pray, they can bring about change, peace, and divine intervention, even in the most challenging circumstances.

In a candid and wide-ranging discussion with local editors, which was broadcasted on national television, President Mnangagwa addressed several key issues affecting the nation. Among the topics he covered were the state of Zimbabwe’s economy, its political environment, foreign relations, and the role of the media in shaping public discourse. The President’s remarks were closely watched, especially given the current challenges the country faces in terms of economic recovery and political stability.

Additionally, the President took time to respond to mounting speculation surrounding businessman Wicknell Chivayo, who has recently been at the center of controversy. Chivayo, known for his involvement in both business and the entertainment sectors, has faced accusations of distributing substantial gifts, including vehicles and cash, to members of the Zanu-PF party and the artistic community. This led to rumors that Chivayo’s actions were part of a wider scheme to garner support for a possible extension of the President’s term in office. However, President Mnangagwa was quick to dismiss these claims, stating that there was no connection between Chivayo’s actions and any political manoeuvring aimed at prolonging his presidency.

The President’s remarks underscored his strong commitment to the principles enshrined in the Constitution, emphasising that Zimbabwe’s future should be determined by democratic processes and the will of the people, not by external influence or partisan manoeuvring. He also highlighted the importance of a peaceful transition of power, assuring citizens that the process of selecting a successor would be transparent, democratic, and in line with the values of the Constitution.

President Mnangagwa once again stressed that the upcoming elections in 2028 would serve as a defining moment for the country, allowing the people of Zimbabwe to make their voices heard and determine the leadership of their nation for the future. His commitment to this constitutional principle, he said, remained steadfast, and he would leave office in 2028, as promised, to make way for a new leader to take the reins.

While everything that has been said by President Emmerson Mnangagwa sounds promising. Time will tell if these statements hold true in practice. We can remain optimistic, but it’s important to acknowledge that the real outcomes may differ when considering the history of African leaders and presidency.