Political Reporter
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reiterated his stance against seeking a third term in office, emphasizing his commitment to the constitutional two-term limit.
Addressing a large crowd at the commissioning of the Mutare Teachers College’s fruit juice and water processing plant yesterday, the President clarified his position, aligning it with both the national and ZANU PF constitutions.
"Constitution yedu inoti iyo after every five years tinoenda ku congress. Takaita congress yedu about five years ago. Every five years tinoenda ku congress handiti? Taenda ku congress ikoko tosarudza President wedu. President wedu anofanirwa kugara ma term maviri e five years, five years. Ini ndakaita five years dzekutanga dzikapera. Tikaenda ku congress mukandidzosera. So ndakuita my last five years, dzichapera manje manje ndoenda kunozorora. Toenda ku congress motsvaka mumwe anotungamira achitevedzera tsoka dzangu. Mazvihwa. Mazuva angu ekuzorora ava pedo toenda ku congress motsvaga anotevedza tsoka dzangu, dza Munhumutapa. Mozvinzwa? Ndakurumai nzeve," stated President Mnangagwa.
This public declaration marks the third time in which President Mnangagwa has dispelled on-going speculation about a potential constitutional amendment that would allow him to pursue a third term.
His previous reassurances were made during interviews with ZTN Prime on the eve of last year’s general elections and with Brick-by-Brick magazine earlier this year.
During yesterday’s address, President Mnangagwa emphasized the importance of maintaining the democratic principles of the country.
"We are a peace-loving and united people; hence it is imperative that we uphold the country’s democracy. Each day that passes means new things will come, including new leadership, but what is important in ZANU PF is unity and adherence to the dictates of our constitution," he asserted.
The President also used the occasion to call for national unity and love among Zimbabweans.
He urged citizens to spread love and support one another, highlighting that these virtues were essential for the rapid development of the country.
Political commentator Dr Edmore Mujeyi lauded President Mnangagwa's commitment to the constitution, saying, "President Mnangagwa's declaration demonstrates his respect for the rule of law and the principles of democracy. His commitment to the two-term limit is a positive signal for the political stability of Zimbabwe and sets a precedent for future leaders."
Meanwhile, the President's remarks and his clear intention to adhere to the constitutional provisions have been received positively by many Zimbabweans on social media, reinforcing his image as a leader committed to the democratic process and the rule of law.