MNANGAGWA’S 2035 REMARK SPARKS FRESH QUESTIONS ABOUT ZIMBABWE’S POLITICAL FUTURE
Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has sparked a new political debate after reportedly indicating that he expects to still be in power in 2035.
The remark was made while Mnangagwa was addressing delegates at the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo in Masvingo, which opened on 9 September 2026.
And there is significant political context behind the comments.
Earlier this year, Zimbabwe amended its Constitution, extending the terms of the President and Parliament from five years to seven years. The changes moved the next general election from 2028 to 2030, effectively allowing Mnangagwa’s current tenure to continue until 2030.
Mnangagwa was originally serving what was regarded as his second five-year presidential term, with the constitutional framework previously pointing towards a 2028 election.
The 2026 constitutional changes also introduced another major proposed shift: future presidents would be selected by Parliament rather than directly by voters. The changes have been strongly criticised by opposition figures and civil-society groups, who argue that they could further strengthen the ruling establishment’s hold on power.
That is why the 2035 reference is attracting attention.
If Mnangagwa is talking about remaining in power beyond 2030, the obvious question is: what constitutional or political mechanism would make that possible?
For now, the confirmed legal change extends his current tenure to 2030. His reported 2035 expectation does not, by itself, establish that he has secured another term.
Zimbabweans and the rest of the region will be watching closely to see what this means for the country’s electoral future.
Do you believe Mnangagwa should be allowed to remain in power beyond 2030, or should Zimbabwe hold a fresh presidential election?