Zimbabwe's ruling party pushes for constitutional changes to extend power

Zimbabwe's ruling Zanu-PF party is advancing constitutional amendments that would allow parliament to elect the president instead of voters and extend presidential terms from five to seven years. Veteran opposition politician Tendai Biti described the move as "a coup, a slow coup that is unfolding in Zimbabwe." Zanu-PF spokesman Patrick Chinamasa defended the changes, stating, "There's nothing that stops us to change, to go to another system that's less costly, less controversial."

The proposed amendments have sparked significant polarization, with public hearings revealing deep divisions among citizens. Supporters of the changes argue that they will reduce election-related violence, while critics assert that this marks a regression towards an "imperial presidency" reminiscent of Robert Mugabe's rule. Biti warned, "If they can get away with two years what stops them from getting away with 20 years?"

The ruling party is expected to pass the bill in the coming weeks, despite opposition claims of repression and intimidation during public hearings. The opposition has faced restrictions, with police banning numerous meetings and reports of violence against dissenters. Chinamasa dismissed concerns about a shift in governance, asserting that Zanu-PF seeks to maintain political stability and economic development.

Power Read: The proposed constitutional changes represent a strategic consolidation of power for Zanu-PF, allowing the ruling party to sidestep electoral accountability and extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa's tenure. This maneuver could significantly weaken opposition forces, which are already facing repression and intimidation. The opposition's inability to effectively mobilize against these changes exposes their vulnerabilities, while Zanu-PF's confidence in its support base suggests a calculated risk to entrench its authority.

What to watch: The upcoming parliamentary vote on the proposed amendments will be a crucial indicator of Zanu-PF's grip on power and the opposition's capacity to challenge these changes.