Zimbabwe's Senate has overwhelmingly approved a set of controversial constitutional amendments that could allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in power until 2030. The vote gives the proposed changes full parliamentary backing after they were previously endorsed by the National Assembly.

The amendments have sparked intense debate across the country, where Mnangagwa's ruling Zanu-PF party has maintained political dominance since Zimbabwe gained independence in 1980. Senate President Mabel Chinomona announced that 75 senators supported the bill, while only four opposed it.

The legislation had already passed the lower house on June 18, receiving 216 votes in favour and 42 against. Before becoming law, the bill must return to the National Assembly for approval of technical revisions and then be signed by President Mnangagwa.

Critics have strongly condemned the proposals, describing them as a "constitutional coup." Among the most significant changes is an extension of presidential and parliamentary terms from five years to seven years. If enacted, the amendment would effectively prolong Mnangagwa's final constitutionally permitted term until 2030.

The package also proposes a major change to Zimbabwe's electoral system by granting Parliament the authority to appoint the president, replacing the direct presidential elections that have been in place since 1987.