…..PUP President Hebert Chamuka
By Takudzwa Changadeya
The People’s Unity Party (PUP) has publicly thrown its support behind the extension of the presidential term in Zimbabwe until 2030 saying it hopes this move will bring peace, stability and room for all voices to be heard in national decision-making.
Speaking in Harare on Thursday, PUP President Hebert Chamuka said the party and its supporters have long hoped for a change that would strengthen the country’s future.
He said the recent push by Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi to move forward the so-called “2030 agenda” was a chance for Zimbabwe to unite rather than divide.
“We, in the People’s Unity Party, have always wanted a future where all Zimbabweans are included in running this country.
“Now that Cabinet has taken steps towards extending the presidential term, we are asking His Excellency President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa to bring in opposition parties, civil society, church leaders and other stakeholders into government so that every citizen’s voice is heard,” Chamuka said.
The 2030 agenda refers to a set of proposed constitutional changes approved by Zimbabwe’s Cabinet recently which would lengthen presidential terms from five to seven years and allow President Mnangagwa to remain in office until 2030 instead of stepping down in 2028.
The draft law would also change the way the president is chosen, shifting from direct election by voters to selection by Parliament.
Chamuka said his party has an Inclusive Government Agenda (IGA), which aims to support the current political situation while pushing for unity and fair participation of all political forces.
“We wrote to the President even in the days of the late Blessed Geza activism, encouraging him to stand firm and continue with national building
“We still support his vision for our country, and we pray every day that Zimbabwe can enjoy peace, good governance and a stronger economy,” he said.
The move to change the constitution has sparked strong debate across Zimbabwe.
Some opposition parties and civil society groups have spoken out against the plan, arguing that key changes to term limits should be decided by the people in a national referendum.
Critics say any change that extends the time a leader stays in office must reflect the will of the voters, not just decisions taken in Parliament or within a ruling party.
Despite the opposition, PUP’s Mr Chamuka said it is time to be practical.
“The extension is already underway, and it has been accepted in principle. Instead of fighting what has happened, we should find ways to work with what is before us,” he added.
Chamuka also said his party would continue to pray for unity, peace and prosperity in Zimbabwe as the country navigates these historic changes.