Zimbabwe weighs parliament-elected presidency, triggering backlash

Zimbabwe’s National Assembly approved Constitutional Amendment Bill No 3 to replace direct presidential elections with a joint sitting of Parliament, sending it to the Senate for a two-thirds vote. Supporters argue it could deliver policy continuity and accelerate development, while opponents warn it would weaken democratic accountability and bolster ZANU-PF’s grip, potentially extending Mnangagwa’s tenure beyond 2028. Allegations of intimidation during consultations and bribery of MPs have added to concerns, and legal challenges are already underway as the bill advances.