Senate clears term extension; lithium for roads
Zimbabwe’s Senate has approved constitutional changes that could extend the President’s time in office, while the government moves to trade minerals for new transport links. Residents are also seeing stricter enforcement against online criticism following a recent arrest over a viral video.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa may be able to serve longer than currently allowed after the Senate overwhelmingly approved constitutional amendments on Wednesday. These changes to the law are designed to keep the current administration in power, though the move has faced significant opposition. This decision marks a major shift in the country's political landscape and governance for the coming years.
You may see improvements to local transport as the government plans to use lithium to pay for new roads and railways built by China. As Africa’s largest producer of lithium—a key material for electric car batteries—Zimbabwe is using "mineral-backed financing" to fund infrastructure. This strategy aims to modernize the country's transit networks without relying on traditional bank loans.
Be aware of legal risks when posting online, as a man in Chiredzi remains in prison for criticizing the President and businessman Wicknell Chivayo in a video. He faces charges of inciting violence after his comments went viral. Separately, King Mswati III of Eswatini (a neighboring monarchy) has granted Chivayo citizenship and a diplomatic passport after the businessman pledged to build a R3 billion solar power plant in that country.
For more on the return of opposition leader Nelson Chamisa and other local developments, visit the News section in the app.