Zimbabwe Parliament Approves Bill to Extend Presidential Terms

On [date not specified], Zimbabwe's Parliament approved a bill aimed at extending presidential terms, which includes provisions for presidential elections to be conducted by Parliament rather than through direct popular vote. The bill received a majority vote, surpassing the two-thirds threshold required for such legislation.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is 83 years old, is seeking to maintain power beyond the end of his second term in 2028. This initiative emerged two years ago when supporters began chanting slogans at ZANU-PF rallies, emphasizing the need for more time to complete the party's agenda.

The proposal to amend the constitution to prolong presidential terms received backing from the cabinet in February. Mnangagwa came to power in 2017 following a military coup that ousted long-time leader Robert Mugabe.

Critics have labeled the bill a ruse to extend Mnangagwa's rule, while supporters argue it will strengthen accountability and foster political stability.