By Burnett Munthali
Zimbabwe’s cabinet has approved a bill allowing Parliament to elect the president, a move that has sent shockwaves across the nation and sparked concerns about the erosion of democracy.
The proposed bill, which still needs to be passed by Parliament, could potentially extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s rule to 2030, giving him another seven years in office.
Critics argue that the move is a blatant attempt by Mnangagwa’s party, ZANU-PF, to consolidate power and undermine the democratic process, which has been a hallmark of Zimbabwe’s politics since independence.
The bill’s approval has also raised fears of increased migration, as more Zimbabweans seek stability and opportunities outside the country, particularly in South Africa, which has historically been a popular destination for Zimbabwean migrants.
The proposed changes to the electoral process are seen as a major setback for democracy in Zimbabwe, and have been widely condemned by opposition parties and civil society organizations.
The Zimbabwean government has defended the move, saying it is aimed at strengthening the country’s institutions and promoting stability, but critics argue that the real intention is to suppress opposition and maintain power.
As news of the bill spreads, Zimbabweans are expressing their discontent on social media, with many calling for protests and demonstrations against the move.
The international community is also watching the situation closely, with concerns that the move could further isolate Zimbabwe and undermine its economic recovery efforts.
The outcome of the bill remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the eyes of the nation are on Parliament, as Zimbabweans wait with bated breath to see if democracy will prevail.
