Opposition leader Elizabeth Valerio has strongly criticized ZANU PF for attempting to amend the constitution to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s time in office beyond 2028.
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Within ZANU PF, factions have emerged—one advocating for the suspension of the 2028 elections to keep Mnangagwa in power until 2030, while another, aligned with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, insists on upholding the constitutional two-term limit. Reports suggest that some opposition MPs have been recruited to support the constitutional amendment, exploiting divisions within the opposition.
Valerio, who leads the United Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA), stressed that internal power struggles within ZANU PF should not interfere with the country’s constitutional processes.
“The government must uphold the Constitution of Zimbabwe. Citizens have the right to vote in 2028, to register candidates, and to elect a new president. We urge ZANU PF to handle its factional disputes internally without undermining democracy or disregarding constitutional rights,” she stated.
Although Mnangagwa has not publicly endorsed the campaign to extend his presidency, his supporters continue to push for constitutional changes. However, he has also not distanced himself from the faction advocating for the amendment.
Valerio warned against allowing history to repeat itself, reminding Zimbabweans of past political shifts.
“Zimbabwe has been down this road before. In 2017, we were given a chance for change, but now a new narrative is emerging, claiming Mnangagwa must stay because he is performing well. That is why we are launching the Community Wall Initiative, reaching out across the country to ensure citizens’ voices are heard. The people do not want 2030,” she said.
She emphasized that UZA would not be drawn into ZANU PF’s internal conflicts but would stand firm in amplifying the people’s demand for democratic governance.
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