Supporters of the President have begun rallying behind the notion of his continued leadership, with some chanting "2030, he will still be the leader," despite the constitution restricting presidents to two five-year terms.

Mnangagwa's backers argue that he should remain in office to oversee the completion of his ambitious "Agenda 2030" development programme, pointing to the progress made under his leadership. However, this growing movement has raised questions about the political and constitutional ramifications of such an extension.

Dr McDonald Lewanika, Regional Director for East and Southern Africa at the Accountability Lab, noted that while some figures within the ruling ZANU-PF party are pushing for an extension of Mnangagwa’s tenure, the agenda itself remains unfeasible without significant constitutional changes. Lewanika underscored that while Mnangagwa has portrayed himself as a constitutionalist, the current reality is much more complicated.

He also pointed out divisions within ZANU-PF, with some party members rejecting the idea of an extended presidency. The dispute has escalated, with reports suggesting that individuals opposing the proposal have been dismissed from the party.

Lewanika observed that public sentiment in Zimbabwe is not overwhelmingly in favour of Mnangagwa remaining in power. While some within ZANU-PF may support an extension, many Zimbabweans believe that leadership should be more collective, with the country’s future not bound to one individual.

At the same time, reports of a crackdown on freedom of speech have surfaced, particularly following the pursuit of Blessed Geza, a war veteran who has been critical of the proposed move. Lewanika expressed concerns over the long-standing suppression of free expression in Zimbabwe, with individuals facing persecution for raising legitimate concerns about governance and corruption.

The Catholic Bishops Conference has also weighed in, describing the debate surrounding 2030 as a distraction from more pressing issues, such as national unity and economic stability. Lewanika agreed, stressing that the focus should shift to addressing systemic problems rather than personalising the nation's future around any one leader.

Lewanika pointed out that the primary responsibility for preventing any unconstitutional moves lies with the people of Zimbabwe.

--ChannelAfrica--