Tshabangu warns CCC MPs they will be removed over the 2030 amendment

Sengezo Tshabangu

Self‑declared Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) senator Sengezo Tshabangu has warned opposition legislators that any MP who refuses to back Zanu‑PF’s proposed constitutional amendment to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term to 2030 will be removed from Parliament.

In a social media post, Tshabangu said amending the Constitution required a joint position between the ruling party and the opposition. “However, as opposition, we agreed to treat the matter as settled, and any opposition MP who goes against this position will be relieved of their duties and replaced,” he wrote.

Opposition reaction

The statement drew sharp criticism from some opposition figures. Daniel Molokele, the Hwange Central legislator, compared Tshabangu to former opposition leader Douglas Mwonzora, saying the episode echoed past divisions. “There is nothing new under the sun. Tshabangu is Mwonzora, part two. He will be abused by ED and then dumped later, just like Mwonzora,” Molokele said.

Molokele added that MPs would take individual positions on the issue. “My own stance is very clear. I am totally opposed to the so‑called 2030 Agenda. My term of office will definitely end in 2028 if I manage by miracle to get there,” he said. “I actually assume that I will be recalled from Parliament this year.”

Context and fallout

The 2030 agenda refers to proposals to amend the Constitution to extend the presidential and parliamentary terms to 2030. Tshabangu’s remarks follow internal disputes within the opposition over engagement with the proposed Constitutional Amendment No. 3, which has generated controversy across the political spectrum.

Tshabangu’s threat to remove dissenting MPs underscores ongoing tensions within opposition ranks and highlights the political sensitivity surrounding any attempt to alter the electoral timetable. Several opposition MPs have previously distanced themselves from statements or meetings linked to factions supporting the 2030 agenda, and party leaders have repeatedly emphasised adherence to official positions.

Sengezo Tshabangu 2030 warning