Zimbabwe’s tensions mount: Moyo, Mnangagwa trade blows over constitutional changes
The Mt Kenya Times 
President Emmerson Mnangagwa
By: Norman Mwale [The PenPusher]
In a dramatic turn of events, Zimbabwe’s political landscape is heating up as former Higher Education Minister Jonathan Moyo resurfaces with a vengeance, targeting President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s bid for an extended term.
Moyo, a prominent figure from the G40 faction of the Mugabe regime, has been in self-imposed exile in Kenya for several years, but has now launched a scorching attack on Mnangagwa’s government, accusing them of plotting to entrench their power. Moyo, who has had a tumultuous relationship with Mnangagwa since the 2017 coup that ousted Robert Mugabe, has been accused of plotting to extend Mnangagwa’s term beyond 2028.
According to reports, Moyo has been embroiled in a bitter dispute with Mnangagwa’s advisor, Edwin Isaac Manikai, over allegations of defamation. The case has drawn attention for its political undertones, particularly as Moyo has been linked to debates over proposed constitutional amendments to extend Mnangagwa’s term. Moyo has denied any wrongdoing, dismissing the allegations as baseless. He has also argued that the constitution allows Parliament to amend the length of a presidential term without triggering a referendum.
In a recent speech, Moyo said, “The people of Zimbabwe must be vigilant and protect their democratic rights.” He added, “Any attempt to extend the president’s term without a referendum is a betrayal of the people’s trust.”
Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga has accused Moyo of engaging in treasonous activities, claiming his “Breaking Barriers Initiative” seeks to change Zimbabwe’s governance system and postpone the 2028 elections.
The government has dismissed Moyo’s claims, with Information Minister Monica Mutsvangwa stating, “Moyo’s statements are baseless and aimed at destabilising the government.”
Regarding the Cabinet 3 referendum, Moyo has expressed concerns, saying, “The regime is trying to sneak through changes that will entrench their power.” He also mentioned, “The people must demand transparency and accountability from their government.”
Mbizo Hon. MP Corban Madzivanyika has thwarted the Cab 3 referendum, arguing that the proposed changes are unconstitutional.
Opposition leader Jacob Ngarivhume has vowed to fight the proposed constitutional amendments, saying, “We are launching strategic litigation in the courts… We are fighting in Parliament to ensure that we raise one-third to stop this Bill”.
CCC interim leader Jameson Timba argues that only a referendum can decide on the constitutional changes, stating, “Zanu PF’s 2030 resolution of today is silent on how it will be done. If it means changing the Constitution, only a referendum can decide”.
Nelson Chamisa, former CCC leader, has challenged Mnangagwa to subject the proposed changes to a referendum, saying, “A true and proper constitutionalist must not be afraid of proper elections or at all costs seek to avoid the people”.
Six war veterans have mounted a court challenge against the proposed constitutional amendments, arguing that they are unconstitutional and aim to prolong Mnangagwa’s incumbency. Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana has dismissed the war veterans’ court challenge, stating, “The people who have made this court application are only six individuals out of the thousands of war veterans in this country”.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s spokesperson, George Charamba, has warned opposition politicians against mobilising street protests over proposed constitutional amendments, saying any attempts to foment instability will be dealt with decisively.
Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi has stated that the Zimbabwean constitution is not sacred and will be amended to accommodate Mnangagwa’s attempts to extend his term until 2030, saying “The 10 commandments were written on stone by God, they are the only laws that cannot be changed, everything else can”.
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- Mt Kenya Times ePAPER June 16, 2026
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