Zimbabwe’s constitutional court has dismissed a legal challenge brought by war veterans against proposed constitutional amendments, effectively clearing the way for reforms that could extend presidential terms and allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in office until 2030.
The ruling, delivered on Wednesday, has triggered mixed reactions across the political landscape, with government supporters hailing it as a victory for constitutional process, while critics warn it could weaken democratic safeguards.
Outside the court in Harare, supporters of the government welcomed the decision. Lawyer Silvesta Hashiti, representing President Mnangagwa, argued that the applicants failed to prove any wrongdoing, insisting there was no legal basis for their challenge.
However, legal representatives for the war veterans indicated that the matter is far from over. Lawyer Lovemore Madhuku said his clients respect the court’s ruling but remain committed to pursuing their concerns through other legal avenues.
“We respect the judgment of the court, but we are undeterred,” he stated.
The decision has also drawn concern from political commentators. Analyst Precious Shumba warned that the ruling could signal a weakening of judicial independence and pose risks to Zimbabwe’s constitutional democracy.
“The court ruling reflects the erosion of our judiciary by the executive and this represents the death of our constitutional democracy,” he said.
Opposition parties and civil society organisations have similarly raised alarm over the proposed amendments, arguing that they could further consolidate executive power.
Despite the court’s decision, legal representatives for the war veterans say the dispute is not over, with the case expected to continue at the High Court level.
