Key facts
- Zimbabwe's Senate approved a bill to extend presidential terms from five to seven years.
- The legislation could allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in office until 2030.
- The bill proposes changing presidential elections from a popular vote to selection by parliament.
- 75 senators voted in favor of the bill, with four opposed.
Zimbabwe's Senate has approved constitutional amendments that would extend presidential terms to seven years and change the election process from a direct popular vote to selection by lawmakers. The bill, which passed with 75 votes in favor and four against, could allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who has been in power since 2017, to remain in office until 2030. The proposed changes also postpone the next presidential election from 2028 to 2030. Critics argue that such extensions require a referendum and are a tactic to prolong Mnangagwa's rule, while supporters contend the changes will enhance accountability and stability. The bill now awaits Mnangagwa's signature to become law.