President Emmerson Mnangagwa has firmly dismissed speculation about a possible extension of his presidency beyond the constitutional two-term limit, stating unequivocally that he will step down when his time in office ends.
Speaking to news editors at State House, Mnangagwa reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the constitution and respecting the democratic process.
“I have two terms, and these terms are very definite and I am so democratic; when they come to an end, I will step aside and my party will elect a successor. That’s as clear as day. Those who have other imaginations, it’s a democratic society for them to dream but facts will take the day,” Mnangagwa said.
His remarks come amid ongoing speculation within political circles about whether he might seek to extend his rule beyond 2028.
When asked whether he could be persuaded to consider another term, Mnangagwa responded with a quip, stating he would “persuade the persuaders not to persuade me so that I remain constitutional.”
His statements come at a time where party supporters from the ruling Zanu PF have been pushing for a term extension.
However, in the country’s dynamic political landscape, discussions around succession and potential amendments to the constitution continue to generate debate.
Mnangagwa first came to power in 2017 following the ouster of longtime leader Robert Mugabe and later won the presidency in the 2018 elections.
His second term is set to conclude in 2028, and his latest statements reaffirm his stance on leadership transition within his ruling ZANU-PF party.
