Zimbabwe bill to scrap presidential elections sparks backlash
Summary
Zimbabwean lawmakers have passed a bill proposing to stop direct presidential elections and let parliament choose the president instead. Supporters say this will help keep steady policies, while critics worry it will reduce democracy and increase the ruling party’s control.Key Facts
- The bill would replace direct presidential elections with a vote by members of parliament (both Senate and National Assembly together).
- On June 1, the National Assembly approved the bill with 216 votes for and 42 against.
- The bill now goes to the Senate, where it is expected to pass with the needed two-thirds majority.
- Justice Minister Ziyambi said the bill does not extend presidential terms or postpone elections and does not concentrate power in the president’s hands.
- Critics believe the bill would strengthen President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s power and may allow him to stay in office beyond 2028.
- Supporters, including members of both the ruling party ZANU-PF and some opposition, argue the change will support long-term development plans.
- ZANU-PF has ruled Zimbabwe since independence in 1980; Mnangagwa became president in 2017 after Robert Mugabe stepped down.
- Some activists warn the amendment will weaken democracy, worsen economic conditions, and deepen one-party dominance.
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