‘Mnangagwa should emulate Nyusi’ Analysts

Oscar J Jeke

Zim Now Reporter

Political analysts have advised President Mnangagwa to emulate his Mozambican counterpart,Felipe Nyusi, who is set to relinquish power at the end of his term in October, with experts citing violation of the constitution in Mnangagwa’s bid to extend his stay beyond his current term.

This comes as various provinces have called for Mnangagwa to stay in power for another term, so as to see off his 2030 vision, with Harare province chairman, Godwills Masimirembwa being the latest Zanu Pf official to call for the addition of a third term or total scrapping of the term limits.

Analysts who waded into the issue highlighted the violation of fundamental pillars of Zimbabwean democracy as well as its values, and principles.

Ernest Mudzengi, said that President Mnangagwa risks setting a bad precedence in terms of power transition, with the already in motion plan a clear violation of the country’s supreme law.

He states that, “it is not constitutional and may not board well with constitutionalists and citizens. It presents clear challenges as it bears negative implications of violating the constitution, values, and principles that form the foundation of our country. It sets a bad precedence going forward in terms of power transition in Zimbabwe.

Mudzengi also added that, President Mnangagwa may be successful in extending his term, given that he rules the party and also with members in various provinces urging him to stay for another term.

Another political expert, Kudakwashe Munemo, reiterated the same sentiments echoed by Mudzengi, highlighting that the bid is unconstitutional, and poses a grave threat to the country’s stability, given that the needs of the country extend beyond an individual, while others are also able to take the country forward.

“It is an unconstitutional move; the law is direct in that a president can only serve two terms. There are others capable of taking us forward after Mnangagwa and it would be unfair that the President is behind the move. The president should actually focus on fulfilling his 2023 promises to the people as he has a social contract with the citizens of Zimbabwe,” he said.

He further added that Mnangagwa should emulate Mozambican President Felipe Nyusi and let others lead, reflecting a peaceful transition that boosts the confidence of his people, citing that nothing will come out of the unconstitutional move.

It cannot bear any gains and will further isolate the country in the region. He should emulate the Mozambican President who is leaving office at the end of his term, the move will further escalate people’s lost hope and confidence in a peaceful transition, and many will leave the country as a result.

“Internally he is going to face hurdles, because of the provisions of the constitution and having other members vying for the post. The military has a say in this as well because they helped in the transition in 2017, so they will decide to make,” he said.

Jealous Mawarire also echoed his sense on the matter, noting that there are cronies behind the push, who stand to benefit from Mnangagwa’s stay in power, while safeguarding their corrupt gains.

He further added that they want to keep looting from mineral resources and tenders through their closeness to power.