Mutare, (New Ziana)- In a surprise move, President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Thursday announced he will not seek a third term in office when the current one expires in 2028.
He made the announcement during the commissioning of a Baobab, Fruit and Water Processing Plant at Mutare Teachers College.
President Mnangagwa was re-elected for his second five-year term last year. “I am grateful for the opportunity to have served this great nation, but I feel that it is time for me to pass the torch to the next generation of leaders,” he said.
“I am in my last five years of office as my time to rest is near. I am proud of what we have accomplished during my time in office, and I am confident that our country will continue to thrive in the years to come. As we head towards congress (of the ruling ZANU-PF party) we are now preparing our next candidate to run for office after me. I have hinted you on what is in store for our nation politically,” he added.
The announcement ends speculation about a possible third term, which President Mnangagwa said would violate the country’s Constitution. The supreme law only allows two presidential terms.
The announcement is likely going to send shock waves on the through the country’s political landscape, and open jostling for power among contenders. It is believed a number of high-profile ZANU-PF figures would throw their hats into the ring for the top job.
New Ziana