Citizens urged to reject ED’s third-term bid

Citizens have been urged to stand up against President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s alleged plans to extend his rule beyond his current constitutional term limit.

Addressing journalists in Harare, National Democratic Working Group (NDWG) Head of Political Affairs, Wurayayi Zembe vowed to intensify resistance against what he describe as a “dictatorial” attempt to establish a life presidency.

He called upon churches, students, civil society organizations, workers, and all Zimbabweans to unite in rejecting Mnangagwa’s alleged attempts to cling to power. 

“We urge all churches, students, civil society organizations, workers of our nation, and the downtrodden masses of our people to stand firm in support of our position and that of the progressive war veterans of the armed liberation struggle.

“We welcome the support of progressive war veterans, including Blessed Geza and Knox Chivero, who have echoed our call for resistance.

“This is the position of the masses of Zimbabwe who are eager to see the completion of the democratic revolution,” said Zembe.

Zembe declared that the rejection of Mnangagwa’s 2030 presidency agenda was gaining momentum. 

“The NDWG stands hand in glove with all progressive forces calling for immediate transformational change in Zimbabwe.

“We will not succumb to dictatorial tactics meant to silence us,” Zembe said.

Joelson Mugari, NDWG’s Chief National Organiser, also spoke against Mnangagwa’s recent statements that he would abide by the constitution. 

“He is indicating right while turning left.

“If he truly respects the constitution, why does he allow sectors within his government to push the 2030 agenda? He must put a stop to it if his words are genuine,” Mugari said.

The NDWG condemned the recent crackdown on their activities, including the arrest and alleged ill-treatment of 41 of their executive members in Mutare.

The group was detained after police stormed their private leadership meeting at Beats of the Forest Resort in Penhalonga on February 8, 2025.

According to Zembe, members were subjected to “torture, inhuman, and degrading treatment” before being transferred to Mutare Central Police Station.