Election observers denounce Zim’s proposed vote delay to 2030

Election observers in Zimbabwe have strongly criticised a proposal to delay the 2028 elections, a move predominantly supported by the ruling Zanu PF.
They caution that such a decision could set a dangerous precedent in a region recognised for its relative peace and stability.
Recent calls from Zanu PF and some opposition members have advocated for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration to extend its tenure until 2030.
This proposal arises despite Mnangagwa’s previous commitment to reject any attempts to extend his term beyond 2028. According to Section 91 of Zimbabwe’s Constitution, the president’s term is limited to two five-year periods.
For any constitutional amendments allowing Mnangagwa to extend his presidency beyond these two terms, the government would require a two-thirds majority vote in Parliament and public approval via a referendum.
The Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) has expressed concern over the escalating debate to postpone the 2028 elections to 2030. They argue that such a delay risks undermining Zimbabwe’s democratic principles and electoral integrity, with far-reaching implications for governance.
“As discussions on the proposed postponement grow among political analysts, citizens, and election observers, troubling developments have emerged. Some segments of the opposition are aligning with the ruling party to support an extension, raising questions about their motivations and the potential impact on democratic processes,” said ZESN.
The organisation praised President Mnangagwa for his commitment to upholding the Constitution, highlighting his 2024 public statement distancing himself from calls to delay elections and reiterating his lack of interest in extending his term beyond 2028.
“This stance is particularly noteworthy given the growing push for an extension from certain political figures within his party and some opposition elements. The President’s position reinforces the need to adhere to the Constitution, which clearly outlines specific five-year term limits for elections.
“This framework is crucial for ensuring regular democratic participation. Delaying elections could significantly erode public trust in electoral processes, raising serious concerns about a genuine commitment to democracy and accountability,” ZESN emphasised.
As the current Chair of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), Zimbabwe holds a pivotal position in regional governance and electoral integrity. ZESN noted that the proposed delay would violate the SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections, to which Zimbabwe is a signatory.
The organisation underscored the importance of adhering to constitutional mandates regarding electoral timelines, stating, “These timelines must be determined by legal correctness rather than political agendas.”
ZESN further noted that upholding electoral integrity is critical for fostering trust in governance, not only for Zimbabwe but across the SADC region.
“ZESN calls for political will to implement meaningful and genuine electoral reforms, including adhering to recommendations from Election Observer Missions (EOMs). The Network remains dedicated to advocating for these reforms and ensuring electoral timelines as stipulated in the Constitution are respected,” they said.