The two-term limit in the Zimbabwean constitution was approved overwhelmingly by millions of Zimbabweans in 2013 and passed in a referendum voted on by more than 80% of voters. It is complemented by another clause in the Constitution which states that no incumbent can benefit from the constitutional amendment.
These provisions have been discussed throughout Zimbabwe and are the result of deep debate The belief that presidents should not remain in office for long. This is reinforced by the fact that in its 44-year history Zimbabwe has only had two presidents, which is one of the main reasons why our nation has performed far below its true potential.
It is also a sad fact that our first president was in office too long — until he became old and emaciated — leading some to unconstitutionally remove him through a coup. Coups cast nations in a very bad light internationally. If Mugabe had left early and made room for the blood of young people, we would not have suffered this setback at all.
Accordingly, any move to amend these provisions now would not only constitute a serious violation of our Constitution, but would also perpetuate the perception that Zimbabwe is a banana republic and an unsafe investment destination.
No matter how this debate is camouflaged, it is wrong and dangerous and all patriots should speak out against it.
Instead, we must focus now on the policies we need as a nation to provide clean water to citizens, ensure a safe and healthy environment, rapidly expand foreign investment, and create millions of jobs. Coltart writes on X
