Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reiterated his commitment to stepping down at the end of his second term in 2028, despite growing calls within the ruling Zanu-PF party for constitutional amendments to extend his tenure. Speaking at the Inaugural Meet-The-Editors Session in Harare, Mnangagwa made it clear that he would abide by the Constitution and facilitate a smooth leadership transition when the time comes.
“I have my two terms, and when the time comes, the country and the party will move on by electing my successor,” Mnangagwa stated firmly. “I have said clearly that I have two terms, and these two terms are definite. When they end, I will step aside, and my party will elect my successor—that is as clear as day. Those who have other imaginations, we have a democratic society that allows them to dream.”
This declaration marks the fourth time that President Mnangagwa has publicly asserted his intention to step down after his second term. His statement serves as a direct response to factions within Zanu-PF that have been pushing for constitutional amendments to allow him to extend his presidency until 2030. Critics argue that such a move would undermine Zimbabwe’s democratic principles and weaken public trust in the nation’s governance structures.
President Mnangagwa’s remarks come amid strong resistance from various quarters, including war veterans, civil society organizations, and religious leaders. War Veterans Secretary Douglas Mahiya recently declared that Zanu-PF would “tear the Constitution” if it became an obstacle to President Mnangagwa’s continued leadership. The church has also weighed in on the debate, urging the president to resist any temptation to remain in power beyond 2028, warning that any attempt to do so would amount to subverting the very Constitution he is sworn to uphold.
Despite these pressures, President Mnangagwa remains resolute. “I will persuade the persuaders not to persuade me,” he said, emphasizing that he has no intention of yielding to calls for an extension. He also took a swipe at individuals within Zanu-PF who, according to him, claim party loyalty while secretly working to divide it from within.
However, critics argue that President Mnangagwa should go beyond verbal reassurances and actively reprimand those within Zanu-PF who continue to push for the 2030 agenda. Political analysts suggest that failing to do so could leave the door open for further lobbying and speculation, potentially destabilizing the party ahead of the 2028 election.
Beyond the issue of succession, President Mnangagwa also addressed Zimbabwe’s ongoing economic challenges. He acknowledged that while the country’s financial situation remains difficult, there have been positive developments, including a strong agricultural season that he hopes will provide much-needed economic relief.
On the subject of corruption, President Mnangagwa vowed to take more decisive action against corrupt individuals, signaling a shift from rhetoric to enforcement. “The barking dog will stop barking and bite,” he warned, indicating that his government intends to intensify efforts in the fight against corruption.
As the 2028 election approaches, President Mnangagwa’s firm stance on stepping down sets the stage for a highly anticipated leadership transition within Zanu-PF. While his reaffirmation of constitutional limits has been welcomed by some as a step toward political stability, the ongoing internal push for an extension suggests that the debate is far from over.
The coming years will be crucial in determining whether President Mnangagwa’s commitment to a peaceful transition holds firm or whether internal party dynamics will force a shift in his position. For now, however, his words stand as a strong declaration that Zimbabwe’s leadership will change hands in 2028, paving the way for a new chapter in the country’s political landscape.
In other news – Investigation launched into torture claims at Pretoria’s Zanzou nightclub after viral videos
Police launch investigation into torture claims at Pretoria’s Zanzou nightclub after viral videos! Gauteng police have opened an investigation into disturbing viral videos linked to Zanzou nightclub, a popular venue in Pretoria. The footage, which showcases shocking acts of violence and torture allegedly committed by the club’s bouncers, has sparked widespread outrage.
The graphic videos depict extreme violence, with men hogtied, naked, and their limbs bound, reportedly for failing to settle their bills. Read More
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