President Mnangagwa Reaffirms Commitment to Two-Term Limit, Dismisses Term Extension Speculation

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has once again reiterated his unwavering commitment to upholding the constitutional mandate that limits his presidency to two terms. He affirmed that, as stipulated by the Constitution, his presidency will come to an end in 2028, signaling a clear conclusion to his tenure. While acknowledging that members within his party, Zanu-PF, are entitled to express their views, including suggestions for an extension of his term, the President firmly stated that such proposals would not alter his decision. He made it abundantly clear that his commitment to the democratic process would not be swayed by internal party discussions, and the selection of his successor would be guided by free and fair elections when his term concludes.
In a candid and wide-ranging discussion with local editors, which was broadcasted on national television, President Mnangagwa addressed several key issues affecting the nation. Among the topics he covered were the state of Zimbabwe’s economy, its political environment, foreign relations, and the role of the media in shaping public discourse. The President’s remarks were closely watched, especially given the current challenges the country faces in terms of economic recovery and political stability.
Additionally, the President took time to respond to mounting speculation surrounding businessman Wicknell Chivayo, who has recently been at the center of controversy. Chivayo, known for his involvement in both business and the entertainment sectors, has faced accusations of distributing substantial gifts, including vehicles and cash, to members of the Zanu-PF party and the artistic community. This led to rumors that Chivayo’s actions were part of a wider scheme to garner support for a possible extension of the President’s term in office. However, President Mnangagwa was quick to dismiss these claims, stating that there was no connection between Chivayo’s actions and any political manoeuvring aimed at prolonging his presidency.
The President’s remarks underscored his strong commitment to the principles enshrined in the Constitution, emphasising that Zimbabwe’s future should be determined by democratic processes and the will of the people, not by external influence or partisan manoeuvring. He also highlighted the importance of a peaceful transition of power, assuring citizens that the process of selecting a successor would be transparent, democratic, and in line with the values of the Constitution.
President Mnangagwa once again stressed that the upcoming elections in 2028 would serve as a defining moment for the country, allowing the people of Zimbabwe to make their voices heard and determine the leadership of their nation for the future. His commitment to this constitutional principle, he said, remained steadfast, and he would leave office in 2028, as promised, to make way for a new leader to take the reins.
While everything that has been said by President Emmerson Mnangagwa sounds promising. Time will tell if these statements hold true in practice. We can remain optimistic, but it’s important to acknowledge that the real outcomes may differ when considering the history of African leaders and presidency.