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Proposed reforms spark fears of power consolidation
Zimbabwe's ruling Zanu-PF party is advancing constitutional amendments that would transfer presidential elections from voters to parliament and extend presidential terms from five to seven years, drawing sharp criticism from opposition figures who warn of a creeping authoritarian shift.
Opposition cries foul over 'slow coup'
Veteran opposition politician and former finance minister Tendai Biti condemned the proposals as a "slow coup," telling the BBC the changes threaten democratic gains secured after decades of rule under Robert Mugabe. Zanu-PF, which has governed Zimbabwe since independence in 1980, defended the reforms as cost-effective and less divisive than direct elections.
"There's nothing that stops us from changing to another system that's less costly, less controversial,"
Patrick Chinamasa, Zanu-PF official
Public hearings marred by clashes
Tensions flared during parliamentary hearings on the bill, held in Harare last week. Thousands gathered in a sports arena, with many voicing support for President Emmerson Mnangagwa's extended tenure. One attendee argued, "Term limits must be extended from five to seven years, and MPs should elect the president."
However, when critics were given the microphone, scuffles erupted. Opposition lawyer Fadzayi Mahere accused Zanu-PF supporters of instigating chaos to silence dissent. Chinamasa denied the allegations, claiming the opposition refuses to accept its waning influence.
Repression allegations resurface
Opposition groups report a surge in repression ahead of the hearings, including police bans on over a dozen meetings. Lovemore Madhuku, leader of the National Constitutional Assembly, said he was assaulted by masked assailants last month while police stood by. Biti, currently out on bail for allegedly holding an unauthorized gathering, warned of a return to Zimbabwe's repressive past.
Legal and political stakes
A 2013 constitution limits presidents to two terms and requires a referendum for any term extensions-with sitting leaders barred from benefiting unless voters approve. Critics argue the bill violates these safeguards, while Zanu-PF insists the two-term limit remains intact, merely adjusting the duration of each term.
"If they can get away with two years, what stops them from getting away with 20 years?"
Tendai Biti, opposition leader
Chinamasa dismissed concerns of a power grab, framing the changes as a bid to maintain stability and economic progress under Mnangagwa, who took office in 2017 after Mugabe's ouster. "When his time is up, we will choose other leaders," he said.
What's next
Parliament is expected to pass the bill in the coming weeks, capping a campaign launched in 2024 under the slogan "2030-he will still be the leader." The opposition vows to challenge the amendments in court, but Zanu-PF's parliamentary majority makes approval likely.
