The Zimbabwe Heads of Christian Denominations (ZHOCD) have called on President Emmerson Mnangagwa to uphold the Constitution and resist the temptation of seeking a third term in office.
This appeal comes amid growing calls from ZANU PF supporters for a constitutional amendment to extend Mnangagwa’s rule beyond 2028 when his second and final five-year term is due to end.
However, ZANU PF supporters are pushing to delay the 2028 elections by two years until 2030 and have already begun canvassing for support.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the ZHOCD urged Mnangagwa to resist these calls for “the greater good of the country.”
“The call to extend the Presidential Term Limits and postpone the 2028 elections is an invitation for the President to be a co-conspirator in overthrowing the constitution of the country which the President is elected to uphold, respect and defend,” the statement read.
The church leaders called on Mnangagwa to uphold the constitution and ensure a smooth transition of power in 2028.
Extending his presidency would require a constitutional amendment and a public referendum.
The church leaders called on all Zimbabweans to oppose the ZANU PF machinations by voting against third-term bid when the issue is brought before the public through the referendum.
The ZHOCD brings together heads of the Zimbabwe Catholic Bishop’s Conference, the Zimbabwe Council of Churches, the Evangelical Fellowship in Zimbabwe, and the Development of Apostolic Churches.
JN/APA