The Senate of Zimbabwe has approved on June 24 constitutional amendments that could significantly reshape the country’s electoral system, including delaying the next presidential election and extending the tenure of the Head of State.
The bill, passed by 75 votes to 4, would postpone the 2028 elections to 2030 and extend the presidential term of President Emmerson Mnangagwa by two years. It also proposes replacing direct presidential elections with selection by lawmakers and extending the terms of both the President and members of Parliament from five to seven years.
Supporters within the ruling party argue the changes remain within constitutional bounds, while critics—including Opposition figures, lawyers, and Civil society groups—insist that such amendments require a national referendum and warn of growing democratic backsliding.
The reforms have intensified political tensions, with reports of arrests and intimidation of dissenting voices. Legal challenges remain before the Courts as the legislation awaits final assent to become law.