Amy Fraser1 April 2025 | 11:23

Tensions are rising in Zimbabwe as President Emmerson Mnangagwa seeks power beyond 2028

The leader is facing increasing pressure from former allies who are demanding his resignation over allegations of mismanagement and corruption.

Tensions are rising in Zimbabwe as President Emmerson Mnangagwa seeks power beyond 2028

FILE: Emmerson Mnangagwa. Picture: AFP

Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa has dismissed calls for his resignation as a 'treasonous plot', branding his critics as 'chameleon-like characters'.

While calls for mass protests have emerged, Zimbabweans across the country have largely refrained from taking to the streets, opting instead to stay home – primarily out of fear.

As a result, economic activity has come to a standstill, Ncube explains.

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"It was supposed to be a day of protest, but it ended up being a massive stay-away, which will have an impact even on the economy."
- Effie Ncube, analyst

Ncube further warns that if Mnangagwa were to extend his presidency beyond the end of his second term in 2028 – something he considers a 'serious consideration' – there would be little to gain from such an extension from a governance perspective.

He describes the push for an extended rule as a 'strange and unnecessary campaign' that risks deepening divisions within the ruling ZANU-PF party.

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.