In a recently released video by prominent Zimbabwean newspaper The Sunday Mail, President Emmerson Mnangagwa refuted allegations suggesting his candidacy for an unconstitutional third term. The 81-year-old leader vehemently denied any intentions to violate the country’s Constitution, stating, “There is not an iota of evidence where Zanu PF or I, as President, has ever expressed the violation of our Constitution.” Mnangagwa emphasized the commitment of Zanu PF, the ruling party, to democratic principles and adherence to the Constitution. Despite speculation fueled by slogans heard at Zanu PF rallies, such as ‘2030 vaMnangagwa vanenge vachipo’ (translated as ‘2030 Mnangagwa will still be president’), the party’s official stance remains one of constitutional compliance. Following a supermajority win in Parliament during disputed by-elections last February, Zanu PF stands closer to potentially amending the constitution. Zimbabwe’s 2013 Constitution limits presidential terms to two five-year mandates and establishes a constitutional court. Mnangagwa, a staunch member of Zanu-PF since independence and a key figure in the party, assumed the presidency after a succession war that ousted former President Robert Mugabe in 2017.
