Mthuli Ncube criticized for linking presidential term extension to economic stability
via NewsDay Zimbabwe6 min read
Finance minister Mthuli Ncube is facing significant criticism for connecting the proposed extension of President Emmerson Mnangagwa's term to economic stability and investor confidence. Ncube's remarks support the Constitutional Amendment No 3 Bill CAB3, which aims to extend the presidential term from five to seven years and shift presidential elections to lawmakers. If passed, Mnangagwa's current term, scheduled to end in 2028, would be extended to 2030, along with legislators' terms. Critics view CAB3 as a move to consolidate power, and dissent is reportedly growing within Zanu PF regarding the amendment and Mnangagwa's succession. Attorney-General Virginia Mabhiza recently stated that all Cabinet ministers are obligated to publicly support government decisions or resign, citing Section 104 of the Constitution. This warning is seen by political observers as a direct threat to ministers who privately oppose the Bill, indicating potential dismissals for those not adhering to the party line. Economists argue that the amendment undermines predictability crucial for long-term investment. Commentators like Reason Wafawarova and analyst Vivid Gwede suggest that Mabhiza's statement raises questions about the balance between Cabinet solidarity and independent legislative judgment, and inadvertently exposes internal disagreements within Zanu-PF regarding the amendments.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by NewsDay Zimbabwe.
Must ReadZimbabwe aims to achieve US$1.56 billion in tourism revenue by 2026. The country is also seeking to boost its climate recovery efforts with a US$25 million initiative and is exploring membership in the AIIB for infrastructure funding, particularly in the energy sector. Additionally, Zimbabwe is looking to expand rabbit exports to African markets and is working on digitizing the Deeds Office to accelerate property transactions. Political tensions are noted, with concerns about Zanu PF's influence and a potential referendum. The ADF has urged South Africa to cease support for Zanu PF.
Must ReadZimbabwe is targeting a tourism revenue of US$1.56 billion by 2026. Other news includes political developments such as a Supreme Court declaration regarding a divorce consent dispute, discussions around the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Bill No. 3 2026, and alleged financial power usage by Zanu PF to advance a one-party state agenda. Economic initiatives include an ambassador backing a rabbit export drive to African markets, a US$25 million climate recovery boost, and efforts by Ncube to secure infrastructure funding from AIIB. Social issues like political tensions leading to violence and forced evictions are also reported. Additionally, there are calls for Zimbabweans in South Africa to take precautions due to xenophobia, and an urge for South Africa to cease support for Zanu PF.
BreakingZimbabwe is experiencing political tensions, including violent attacks and forced evictions at grasslands plots, and concerns about a potential Zanu PF ambush towards a referendum. Economically, the country is positioning mining as a key driver for growth and foreign currency, with a US$650 million investment vision reinforcing confidence in long-term potential. However, mining chiefs warn that cost burdens are driving away capital. The nation is also setting wheels in motion for a US$25 million climate recovery boost and seeking a coordinated push to unlock air cargo growth. Other developments include the arrest in Zimbabwe of a suspect linked to the murder of Kruger tourists, and the election of Benza as Zanu PF Manicaland vice chairman. The Deeds Office digitization is speeding up property transactions, and Hwange schools have received bicycles and textbooks in an education access drive.