Zimbabwe Senate backs bill to extend president's term

Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has moved closer to securing a term extension after the Senate approved Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3. The bill passed its third reading with a significant majority, with 75 senators voting in favor and only 4 against. Notably, 23 out of 27 opposition members in the Upper House supported the amendment.

The Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 aims to extend Mnangagwa's presidential term by two years. It also proposes to extend the life of Parliament until 2030 and modify the electoral process for future presidents. The bill now awaits Mnangagwa's assent before it can be officially gazetted into law.

The Senate's vote indicates a strong push by the ruling party to enact these changes, which could significantly alter the country's political landscape and electoral dynamics. The broad support, even from some opposition members, suggests a complex political maneuver is underway.