Zimbabwe's Senate has voted through a series of controversial constitutional amendments, including a provision extending President Emmerson Mnangagwa's term by two years, allowing him to remain in power until 2030. The bill passed with 75 votes in favor and 4 against, according to Senate President Mabel Chinomona.
The amendments, which opposition figures have called a "constitutional coup," include extending the terms of both the president and parliament from five to seven years. The most notable provision shifts the method of electing the president from universal suffrage to a parliamentary vote.
The bill had already been approved by the House of Assembly with 216 votes in favor and 42 against. Following Senate approval, the bill will now be sent to President Mnangagwa to sign into law.
Mnangagwa's ZANU-PF party holds an overwhelming majority in parliament and has been in power since Zimbabwe gained independence in 1980. The opposition, which has weakened after years of repression, argues these measures will entrench the ruling party's grip on power.
Activists opposing the amendment say they face threats, violence, and arrests from security forces. Human Rights Watch reported in March that the Zimbabwean government is using violence and intimidation against those who oppose the amendment.
Mnangagwa came to power after a 2017 military coup that ousted longtime leader Robert Mugabe.
