‘Constitutional coup' in Zim

LEADING Zimbabwe opposition figures accused the government on Wednesday of a constitutional “coup” after the cabinet approved amendments that would allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to extend his term in office.

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Sweeping changes to the constitution accepted by the cabinet on Tuesday include extending the presidential term to seven years and follow a decision by the ruling Zanu-PF that Mnangagwa should stay in office for at least two years after his term ends in 2028. Other provisions scrap general presidential elections, giving parliament the power to choose the president, and would allow Mnangagwa to appoint 10 more senators.

The amendments are to be presented to parliament, which is weighted in favour of the Zanu-PF, but the opposition insists they also need to be put to a national referendum.