Summary
Zimbabwe's government has proposed a new law that would let President Emmerson Mnangagwa stay in office until at least 2030. The law suggests changing how presidents are elected and extending their term limits. Some experts say this law might need a public vote to change the constitution.
Key Facts
- Zimbabwe's cabinet approved a proposal to extend presidential terms to two seven-year terms instead of the current five-year terms.
- This change could allow President Mnangagwa, currently 83, to remain in office until 2030.
- The proposed law would have presidents elected by members of parliament, not directly by the people.
- Public discussions will happen before the law is debated in parliament.
- Legal experts argue the changes might require a referendum because they alter term limits and shouldn't benefit a sitting president.
- Mnangagwa became president in 2017 after a coup and was re-elected in 2023, although the election results were disputed.
- His supporters claim he needs to stay in power to complete his "Agenda 2030" development plans.
- There has been internal opposition in his party, notably from critic Blessed Geza, who was recently expelled from the party and passed away.
