Zimbabwe National Assembly Approves Presidential Term Extensions to 2030

The National Assembly of Zimbabwe approved the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Bill on June 18, 2026, extending presidential and parliamentary terms from five to seven years. The legislation passed with 216 votes in favor and 42 against, exceeding the required two-thirds majority. These changes allow Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in office until 2030, postponing elections originally scheduled for 2028.

Beyond the term extension, the bill eliminates direct popular votes for the presidency, mandating that future presidents be selected by a joint sitting of the Senate and National Assembly. This legislative push follows a Wednesday ruling by the Constitutional Court of Zimbabwe, which dismissed a legal challenge attempting to block the bill.

Supporters from the ruling ZANU–PF party argue the amendments enhance policy continuity and economic stability. However, critics, including the Citizens Coalition for Change and the Constitution Defenders Forum, have labeled the move constitutional fraud. Opponents claim the changes violate the 2013 constitution by bypassing a required national referendum and weaken democratic accountability.

The legislative process has been marred by reports of state-sponsored violence against activists in Chiredzi and allegations that businessman Wicknell Chivayo attempted to bribe lawmakers with cash and vehicles to ensure the bill's passage. The legislation now moves to the Senate for final approval.