THE Precabe Farm tour by legislators was designed to show loyalty to President Emmerson Mnangagwa and to pledge their willingness to facilitate the extension of his term, political observers have said.
The push for Mnangagwa’s extended presidency is already in motion, employing a calculated three-pronged strategy — securing a Zanu PF resolution for constitutional change, using Parliament to ratify the amendments and mobilising grassroots support for a referendum to finalise the process.
However, pursuing the goal presents significant hurdles, both legal and political, that could test the party's ability to maintain its grip on power.
The first step in this reported strategy was achieved during the Zanu PF National People’s Conference in October 2023, where a resolution was made to extend Mnangagwa’s term.
Party insiders claim that focus has now shifted to securing parliamentary approval for constitutional amendments.
With Zanu PF commanding a two-thirds majority in the legislature and a handful of opposition MPs already in its corner, passing the changes appear straightforward.
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Political analyst Pardon Taodzera believes the Precabe Farm visit was a symbolic act to consolidate Mnangagwa’s authority within the party, opposition and Parliament.
“The tour was about demonstrating allegiance to Mnangagwa. It signals that legislators are ready to play their part in ensuring his continued stay in office. This is a power play disguised as a field visit,” Taodzera said.
However, the third phase of the strategy — winning public approval through a referendum — poses a significant challenge.
While Zanu PF has a well-oiled political machine, mobilising support for an amendment that could be perceived as undemocratic may not be as easy as expected.
Legal expert Aaron Hamauswa warned of the democratic implications of tampering with the Constitution to benefit an individual.
“Zimbabwe’s Constitution provides clear term limits to safeguard against authoritarian rule. Any move to extend these limits undermines the democratic principles enshrined in our laws,” he said.
“While Zanu PF may have the numbers in Parliament, the real battle will be convincing the electorate to endorse such a change.”
Mnangagwa’s leadership has faced criticism over economic hardships, corruption and alleged human rights abuses.
While Zanu PF has a history of mobilising rural support, People Unity Party leader Herbert Chimuka said the party might struggle to sell the initiative to an increasingly frustrated populace.
“Zimbabweans are grappling with inflation, unemployment and declining public services. Asking them to support a constitutional amendment that benefits the President personally might provoke resentment rather than loyalty,” he said.