Zimbabwe parliament backs longer presidential term

Zimbabwe’s parliament has approved legislation that would extend presidential terms from five to seven years, a move that could allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in office until 2030. The bill must still be approved by the Senate before becoming law. Supporters within the ruling ZANU-PF party argue that longer presidential terms would promote political stability and reduce the cost of frequent elections. They also say it would allow governments more time to implement long-term development programmes. Opposition figures, civil society groups and some veterans of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle have criticised the proposal. They accuse the government of using constitutional changes to concentrate power. The legislation also includes proposals to change how future presidents are selected, including a provision for parliament to elect the head of state instead of direct voting by citizens. Mnangagwa came to power following the removal of Robert Mugabe in 2017. He has faced increasing scrutiny over Zimbabwe’s economic difficulties, high inflation and concerns about political freedoms. The constitutional reform debate is expected to continue as the bill moves to the Senate.

SOURCE: Reuters