President Mnangagwa says he will still be in power in 2035

_… The statement has been described by some attendees as alarming, while others viewed it as unsurprising given_

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has told delegates at the Sanganai/Hlanganani Tourism Expo in Masvingo that he expects to still be in power in 2035, remarks that have drawn attention amid Zimbabwe’s ongoing political debate over the country’s constitutional and electoral arrangements.

Speaking at the tourism expo, Mnangagwa said he would remain in office when provinces next rotate to host the event.

“After nine years, when we will be rotating provinces to host this event, I will still be in power,” he said.

The remarks come months after constitutional changes that, according to the account presented at the event, removed the 2028 presidential election timetable and extended the current political arrangement by two years.

The statement has been described by some attendees as alarming, while others viewed it as unsurprising given the country’s recent political developments.

Mnangagwa also used the occasion to call on tourism officials and provincial authorities to make better use of Masvingo’s natural resources.

“Masvingo Province has vast riches. You have animals and gold, and what remains is your knowledge to best utilise these riches,” he said.

The President said he expected the Sanganai/Hlanganani Tourism Expo to generate lasting investment in the tourism sector while contributing to improved livelihoods for communities.

The expo brings together tourism stakeholders to showcase Zimbabwe’s attractions and promote investment and growth in the sector. *_-ZBN_*