Tinotenda Hove – Zimbabwe’s Constitutional Court of Zimbabwe has reserved judgment in two high-profile constitutional cases contesting proposed amendments that opponents say could pave the way for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in office until 2030.

The applications were brought before the court by a group of war veterans together with former opposition legislator Prince Dubeko Sibanda. The applicants argue that the proposed constitutional changes violate Section 328(7) of Zimbabwe’s Constitution, which prevents serving public officials from benefiting from amendments that extend their terms in office.

Addressing journalists after Wednesday’s hearing, constitutional law expert Lovemore Madhuku said the core issue before the court is whether the current administration and Parliament have the legal authority to approve changes that directly benefit sitting officeholders.

“The central question is whether those currently holding office can lawfully benefit from constitutional amendments extending their tenure,” Madhuku said.

Government’s Constitution Amendment Bill No. 3 seeks to increase presidential and parliamentary terms from five years to seven years, while also introducing changes to the presidential electoral framework.

Opponents of the Bill argue that such major constitutional alterations should only be implemented after approval through a national referendum.

“A referendum is necessary when dealing with amendments of this magnitude,” one of the applicants argued before the court.

Supporters of the proposed amendments, however, maintain that the changes are administrative in nature and do not abolish presidential term limits.

The matter has drawn widespread national attention, with political observers closely monitoring the court’s pending ruling, which could significantly shape Zimbabwe’s constitutional and political future.