HARARE - Although in the minority, Zimbabwean opposition MPs have vowed to campaign relentlessly to block a bill that would extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s rule.
The move follows Parliament’s gazetting of a constitutional amendment that would extend the president’s term by two years.
Mnangagwa’s second term is set to end in 2028, but the new bill would let him stay in power until 2030. Opposition CCC MPs have told eNCA they’re working to block the bill, calling the bill undemocratic, even as Zanu PF holds a parliamentary majority.
"We need to block this amendment. Apparently, for some of us, we have a strong mandate from the constituency. We have asked our constituency online, and 98% of our people have told me unequivocally that as their MP, I should go and say no to this third constitutional amendment that is coming. So it is my job as a representative of the people to ensure and influence all other MPs. We should actually unite to make sure this bill does not pass through in parliament," CCC MP, Edwin Mushoriwa said.
But militant Zanu PF-affiliated group, Zimbabwe Youth Action Platform's Tonderai Chidawa said the bill will sail through Parliament. They have been leading the campaign to accept Mnangagwa's rule extension.
"The bill will sail through, we cannot debate about these comical political parties, we have clowns in politics and it's allowed. But the bill will definitely sail through, it's a game of numbers. Zanu PF has the majority, including those in opposition. Basically, the train is unstoppable, and you cannot stop a missile when it's on cruise, the ball is rolling," Chidawa said.