Tinotenda Hove – ZANU PF spokesperson Ambassador Christopher Mutsvangwa has dismissed claims that President Emmerson Mnangagwa is seeking a third term, insisting that the ruling party will follow constitutional processes and internal timelines.

Speaking at a press conference in Harare on Thursday, Mutsvangwa moved to clarify the mounting speculation surrounding ZANU PF’s resolutions and the future of its leadership.

“President Mnangagwa is not seeking a third term, let me make it clear,” Mutsvangwa said. “We will know about everything in 2027. I also want to inform you that in our next press conference we will be bringing our legal team from the party so that you can ask any questions regarding Resolution Number One.”

He explained that the recent ZANU PF Annual National People’s Conference unanimously adopted a resolution endorsing Mnangagwa’s leadership.
“Our resolution at the party conference was that the President remain in power until 2030 and it was adopted unanimously,” he said.

Despite this, Mutsvangwa emphasized Mnangagwa’s earlier remarks respecting constitutional term limits.
“The President had said that he will not go beyond 2028, and ZANU PF will also have a congress in 2027 to choose a leader,” he noted.

Commenting on succession, Mutsvangwa dismissed suggestions that the party has already identified a preferred successor.
“There is no natural successor, anyone who has a presidential ambition should keep it in their hearts like everyone else,” he said.

His remarks come amid internal debates, especially from some ZANU PF hardliners pushing a “2030” agenda interpreted by critics as an attempt to extend Mnangagwa’s rule beyond constitutional limits. According to the Constitution, Mnangagwa’s second and final term ends in 2028.

Mutsvangwa’s clarifications appear aimed at easing rising political tension as the nation edges closer to the crucial 2027 ZANU PF congress, where the party’s leadership direction will be determined.