Zimbabwe’s lower house of parliament on Thursday passed a bill to extend presidential terms from five to seven years, which would allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in power until 2030.
Two-hundred-and-sixteen lawmakers voted in favour of the draft legislation, surpassing the 187-mark needed for a two-thirds majority.
The bill now moves to the upper house of parliament, where it is also expected to sail through as Mnangagwa’s ruling ZANU-PF party enjoys significant control.
Two years ago, the supporters of Mnangagwa, 83, started chanting slogans at ZANU-PF rallies that he needed more time to complete his agenda.
Backing by cabinet
The party last year resolved to change the constitution to lengthen presidential terms and the plan received cabinet backing in February.
Backers of the bill argue that it will strengthen accountability and foster political stability.
