By Michael Oche
The African Regional Organisation of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC-Africa) has backed the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) in its pushback against moves to alter Zimbabwe’s constitution to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s tenure.
In a statement from its Lomé regional office, ITUC-Africa General Secretary Akhator Joel Odigie described the move as an assault on democracy and the rule of law.
On 18 October 2025, the ruling ZANU‑PF at its annual conference in Mutare passed a resolution directing the government to initiate legislative changes aimed at extending President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s presidency until 2030 — two years beyond the current constitutional end date of 2028.
The move has come under heavy criticism, especially from the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) and other civil society groups
ITUC-Africa, representing over 18 million workers across the continent, said the protection of constitutional term limits is critical to safeguarding democracy, justice, and stability on the continent.
“Across the continent, African workers have consistently upheld that democracy and constitutionalism form the bedrock of peace, justice, and shared prosperity. Just as we reject military interventions in civil governance, we equally denounce “civilian coups”—when leaders seek to subvert or overthrow their country’s constitutions to prolong their stay in power. We further condemn all attempts,” Odigie stated.
The labour body condemned efforts by political leaders who manipulate electoral systems, suppress dissent, or stage sham elections to entrench authoritarian rule, warning that such actions undermine the will of citizens and reverse democratic progress.
While commending African leaders who have upheld constitutionalism, ITUC-Africa criticised those who have chosen the “opposite path” of eroding institutions for political survival.
“Such actions corrode governance, polarize societies, and expose nations to instability, insecurity, and economic regression,” Odigie warned.
The organisation called on African citizens, civil society groups, labour unions, the African Union, regional economic blocs, and international partners to defend the sanctity of constitutions and strengthen democratic accountability across the continent.
“Societies that work are those governed by the rule of law, not the law of force. When constitutions are trampled, democracy dies—and with it, the hopes of workers for decent work, social justice, and equitable development,” the statement added.
Reaffirming its stance, ITUC-Africa said constitutional rule must never be subject to convenience or personal ambition.
He said, “ITUC-Africa joins ZCTU in urging African citizens, civil society, and the labour movement to remain vigilant and steadfast in defending the integrity of their constitutions. Societies that work are those governed by the rule of law, not the law of force. When constitutions are trampled, democracy dies—and with it, the hopes of workers for decent work, social justice, and equitable development.”
