President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa
By Dickson Bandera
President Emmerson Mnangagwa today announced that he will not seek a third presidential term, which means ZANU PF will need to elect a new leader at the next party conference.
He made these remarks during the official opening of a Fruit Juice and Water Processing plant at Mutare Teacher’s College, citing the constitutional provisions guiding his decision.
“Our constitution mandates that we hold a congress every five years. Our last congress was held approximately five years ago. During these congresses, we elect a president who is to serve two five-year terms,” he said.
Taking office following Robert Mugabe’s resignation in 2017, President Mnangagwa’s tenure has focused on delivering tangible results, particularly in economic and social development. However, he believes that adhering to the two-term limit stipulated by the constitution is appropriate, and he advocates for a new leader to carry forward his legacy.
“I completed my first five-year term, and you re-elected me at our last congress. As I approach the end of my final five years, I have decided to step down. We will convene another congress to select a successor who will continue leading the party,” he added.
Hinting at his imminent retirement, Mnangagwa emphasized the importance of finding a successor who upholds the values of Munhumutapa.
“My retirement is approaching, and I look forward to resting. At the upcoming congress, we will identify a successor who embodies the spirit of Munhumutapa. Consider this a hint,” the president remarked.
Mnangagwa’s announcement in Mutare marks a significant departure from earlier speculations suggesting he might pursue a third term, a notion advocated by some party leaders seeking constitutional amendments.
His decision reflects an evolving leadership style that has also facilitated increased youth representation in senior government positions, signaling a shift from past practices that characterized the end of Mugabe’s era.
Following his victory in the 2023 general elections, where Mnangagwa secured another five-year mandate, the president announced his cabinet and reaffirmed his commitment to transforming Zimbabwe into an Upper Middle-Income Economy by 2028.
