The Constitutional Court of Zimbabwe has granted Ibhetshu Likazulu and its secretary general Mbuso Fuzwayo direct access to the apex court, clearing the way for a constitutional challenge to ZANU PF’s proposed extension of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term to 2030.
The ruling followed a hearing held today, at which the applicants sought leave to approach the full bench directly. The court ordered that the substantive application be filed within five days.
Explaining the outcome, advocate Method Ndlovu said the court granted permission under Section 167(5) of the Constitution, which allows direct access where it is in the interests of justice.
“Our clients filed an application seeking leave for direct access to the Constitutional Court,” Ndlovu said. “They allege violations of Section 67, which protects political rights, and Section 56, which guarantees equal protection and benefit of the law.”
Ndlovu said the applicants intend to challenge the legality of the resolution underpinning the 2030 agenda, arguing that it undermines constitutional safeguards. He added that government representatives were present during the proceedings.
The matter was heard before a panel of judges including Justice Rita Makarau, Justice Bharat Patel and Justice Anne-Mary Gowa.
The case is expected to test the constitutionality of any move to extend presidential tenure beyond the limits set in the Constitution, a debate that has drawn intense national attention amid broader discussions around governance and constitutionalism.
