By Staff Reporter
Innocent Ndibali, Economic Freedom Fighters Zimbabwe (EFF Zimbabwe), has thrown his weight behind proposed constitutional amendments that would extend presidential and parliamentary terms to seven years and introduce a proportional representation electoral system.
In an interview with The Sun, EFF president Innocent Ndibali said the reforms would promote inclusive governance, reduce electoral costs, and strengthen local development.
“We believe elections every five years are costly and divisive.
They interrupt development and shift focus from long-term planning. A seven-year term allows for stability, continuity, and measurable progress.” Said Ndibali.
He argued that the current system of directly electing the President centralizes power in one individual and makes accountability difficult.
“When a President is directly elected, they often say, ‘It’s my vote.’ Removing them becomes difficult. It also weakens local representation because voters are pressured to focus on a single presidential candidate rather than local MPs,” he said.
The EFF Zimbabwe leader proposed that Members of Parliament elect the President instead, a system he noted is used in countries such as South Africa.
“In parliamentary systems, smaller parties can negotiate for development in their constituencies. For example, an MP from Gwanda could bargain for schools and roads in exchange for their support. That strengthens grassroots development and coalition-building,” Ndibali explained.
The party is advocating for a shift toward proportional representation to ensure smaller political parties are fairly represented in Parliament.
According to Ndibali, such a system would reduce political exclusion and encourage coalition governments that prioritize national interests over individual dominance.
He also called for reduced nomination and contestation fees for presidential and parliamentary candidates.
“Democracy must not be reserved for the wealthy. The cost of contesting elections must come down to allow broader participation,” he said.
On senatorial appointments, Ndibali said the proposed additional ten Senate seats should not be limited by age, gender, tribe, or political affiliation.
“Everyone should be eligible for appointment, regardless of party affiliation, gender, tribe, or class. Zimbabwe belongs to all of us,” he said.
Support for Constitutional Amendments
Ndibali confirmed that if the proposed amendments align with EFF Zimbabwe’s vision for economic justice and governance reform, the party would support and campaign alongside the ruling Zanu-PF.
“If this statement is understood in the spirit of national development, we are prepared to support the amendments and work collectively for Zimbabwe’s progress,” he said.
Framing the debate as part of a broader ideological struggle, Ndibali urged Zimbabweans to embrace self-belief and reject colonial mentalities.
“As Africans, we must unapologetically believe in our potential. We are our own liberators, and we are capable of building a prosperous nation,” he said.
The proposed constitutional reforms are expected to generate significant debate across the political spectrum in the coming months.
Ends
