Zimbabwe’s Cabinet has approved the proposal for the constitutional amendment bill number 3 of 2026, which seeks to propose a seven-year presidential term limit.
Addressing journalists during the first post-cabinet media briefing, Information Minister Dr. Jenfan Muswere said the bill seeks to enhance political stability and policy continuity.
He said the legal reforms will help strengthen governance and enhance political stability.
“The Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill, 2026, proposes a series of legal reforms to strengthen constitutional governance, clarify institutional roles, promote political stability, and enhance the efficiency of the State architecture.
“The Bill forms part of Zimbabwe’s continuing legal evolution and seeks to adhere to the spirit of the Constitution, refine and mordenise certain provisions in response to governance experience, developmental imperatives, and comparative constitutional practice.
“RATIONALE The primary objectives of the Bill are to-
- enhance political stability and policy continuity to allow development programmes to be implemented to completion;
- iii. iv. v. clarify institutional mandates and eliminate functional overlaps that undermine efficiency and accountability; strengthen democratic structures through rationalisation of electoral and oversight institutions; align Zimbabwe’s constitutional framework with contemporary African constitutional models that have demonstrated resilience, legitimacy, and effectiveness; and promote long-term national stability, inclusivity, and public confidence in constitutional institutions.
“In detail, the Bill provides as follows:- Clause 1 provides for the Tittle of the bill. Clause 2 repeals section 92 of the Constitution and substitutes it with a parliamentary process for electing the President.
“It specifies that a candidate must secure a majority of votes, and if no one achieves an absolute majority, a run-off election will be held.
“The process is overseen by the Chief Justice or a designated judge to ensure it is conducted properly.
“These measures strengthen constitutional accountability by promoting fairness, openness, and judicial oversight in the election.
“The procedure for the election shall be in accordance with Standing Rules and Orders of Parliament.
“Clause 3.7. and 8 amend sections 95, 143 and 158 of the Constitution to substitute the current five-year term of office for the President and Parliament with seven-year term.
“The objective of this reform is to reduce election-related disruptions, enhance policy continuity, allow sufficient time 2 for the implementation of long-term national projects, and promote political and economic stability.
“Clause 5 amends section 114(3) of the Constitution by substituting “High Court” with “Supreme Court”, thereby requiring that a person appointed as Attorney-General possess the qualifications necessary for appointment as a judge of the Supreme Court.
