Staff Reporter
BULAWAYO – MDC president Douglas Mwonzora has come out strongly against Zanu–PF’s move to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term of office to 2030, describing the plan as unconstitutional, dangerous, and a direct threat to Zimbabwe’s democracy.
Addressing the media and members of the party’s provincial council at the MDC offices in Bulawayo on Wednesday, Mwonzora said the ruling party’s resolution at its recent congress in Mutare to push for Mnangagwa’s continued rule was “an affront to the Constitution” and a betrayal of the values Zimbabweans fought for.
“Just a few days ago, Zanu–PF at its congress in Mutare resolved that President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term must extend to 2030. We all know they wanted the term to go beyond that, but they are just using 2030 as an excuse. As MDC, we are totally opposed to this extension for several fundamental reasons,” said Mwonzora.
The MDC leader reminded the nation that the 2013 Constitution, which his party helped draft, clearly limits a president to two five-year terms.
“The Constitution of Zimbabwe is clear. After two terms, the president must go home and rest. We drafted that clause right here in Bulawayo on the fifth floor of the Rainbow Hotel. Our Constitution is not there for decoration. It must be obeyed,” he said.
Mwonzora warned that tampering with term limits would not only violate the country’s supreme law but also jeopardize Zimbabwe’s bid to rejoin the Commonwealth.
“The Commonwealth has made it clear that Zimbabwe must follow its Constitution before being readmitted,” he said.
“What is standing between Zimbabwe and the Commonwealth today is this so-called third term.”
He added that the proposed extension was already creating political strife across the country, both within the ruling party and the opposition.
“This third term is going to cause unnecessary conflict in Zimbabwe. It is causing strife within the opposition, within Parliament, and even inside Zanu–PF itself,” he warned.
Mwonzora also dismissed claims that there was any exceptional performance by the current administration to warrant an extended mandate.
“There is nothing special that this government has done to deserve a third term. Our hospitals have become death traps, our industries have collapsed, and unemployment has driven our youth into drug abuse. The situation in the country is dire,” he said.
He accused Zanu–PF of attempting to buy off members of parliament, including some from the opposition by promising to extend their terms and improve their perks in exchange for supporting the constitutional amendment.
“One of the sweeteners Zanu–PF has sold to MPs is that their term of office will also be extended. Many are happy because their salaries and benefits have been increased.
They are enjoying life on behalf of the suffering masses,” Mwonzora said.
The MDC leader announced that his party has already begun a mobilization campaign under the slogan “Reject the 2030 Agenda”, aimed at rallying citizens to oppose any attempt to amend the Constitution for personal gain.
“In terms of the Constitution, there must be a referendum. You cannot extend a term of office without going to the people,” he explained.
“And even if the term is increased, the law clearly says it shall not benefit the incumbent.” Mwonzora concluded by urging Zimbabweans to remain vigilant in defense of constitutionalism and democratic principles.
“The MDC will resist this 2030 agenda with everything we have. Our Constitution must not be tampered with for the benefit of one man,” he said.
