Mutsvangwa Tells ZANU-PF Hopefuls to ‘Wait for 2030’ Amid Succession Tensions

HARARE – Christopher Mutsvangwa has warned ambitious members of the ruling ZANU PF to be patient and wait until 2030, as internal tensions over succession continue to simmer. The remarks come as the party pushes for the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment No. 3 Bill, which proposes extending presidential and parliamentary terms from five to seven years and altering how the President is elected.

Addressing journalists on Wednesday, Mutsvangwa appeared to caution party members positioning themselves for leadership ahead of schedule.

“If you have ambitions as a faction or whoever is trying to take over from him, just wait for 2030. It will come,” he said.“It will not be removed from the calendar of Zimbabwe.”

He urged party members to maintain discipline and remain in good standing within the party structures if they hope to secure future leadership support.

Although Mutsvangwa did not name individuals, his remarks are widely seen as directed at factions within ZANU-PF, including those linked to Vice President Constantino Chiwenga.

Chiwenga is reportedly opposed to the proposed constitutional amendments, a stance analysts say may reflect broader concerns about succession dynamics within the ruling party.

The proposed changes under the Constitutional Amendment Bill could significantly alter Zimbabwe’s electoral landscape.

Key provisions include:

• Extending presidential and parliamentary terms to seven years

• Replacing direct presidential elections with a system where Members of Parliament elect the President

If passed, the reforms could effectively extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s tenure to 2030.

ZANU-PF is scheduled to hold its elective congress in 2027, where a successor to Mnangagwa would typically emerge ahead of the 2028 general elections.

However, political observers say both milestones could be disrupted if the constitutional changes are adopted.

The ruling party has dismissed calls from opposition groups and civil society organisations for a national referendum on the proposed amendments. Critics argue that the changes fundamentally alter governance structures and should therefore be subjected to public approval. Reports indicate that a joint sitting of Parliament is scheduled for May 18 to deliberate on the Bill. If approved, it could be sent to the President for assent as early as May 19.

Mutsvangwa also warned against individuals he accused of fuelling divisions within the party.

“Make sure you maintain your standing with the membership… so that your candidacy, come 2030, can enjoy the support which it should,” he said.

Analysts say the public messaging reflects growing factional pressure within ZANU-PF as the country approaches a critical constitutional and political crossroads.

ZANU PF succession Mutsvangwa statement 2026