Zimbabwe opposition challenges Mnangagwa term extension

Zimbabwe’s opposition Movement for Democratic Change asked the constitutional court Thursday to overturn a law extending President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s time in office.

Mnangagwa, 83, signed the amendment into law on Tuesday after it was passed by parliament, which is dominated by his Zanu-PF party. The changes extend presidential and parliamentary terms from five to seven years, allowing him to remain in power until 2030, two years beyond his current mandate.

The MDC argued in its court filing that Mnangagwa is constitutionally required to hold a referendum on the change and failed to meet that obligation. The party’s leader asked the court to declare the changes unconstitutional and either annul them or order a public vote.

Another amendment gives parliament the power to nominate the president, ending election to the post by public vote, which was introduced in 1987.

Mnangagwa came to power in 2017 after an army-backed coup toppled Robert Mugabe. He was elected to five-year terms in 2018 and 2023. Supporters of the new law say it will bring “political stability and continuity,” while critics say it will strengthen Zanu-PF’s hold on power.