Zimbabwe referendum: Voters endorse new constitution that curbs presidency

Voters in Zimbabwe look set to endorse a new constitution curbing the powers presidency, early results showed on Sunday, in a step toward elections to determine whether Robert Mugabe continues on as the country’s leader.

The referendum on the new constitution which limits the number of times a president can serve was largely open and free from violence.

Early results posted outside polling stations showed voters had overwhelmingly backed the new constitution as expected, although the referendum was by a low voter turnout. More than two million people voted, compared to six million eligible, said electoral official Rita Makarau.

The new constitution will set a maximum of two five-year terms for the president, however, the limit will not apply retroactively, so Mugabe could run for another two terms as president of Zimbabwe.

Presidential decrees will also require majority backing in the cabinet, and declaring emergency rule or dissolving parliament will need the approval of two-thirds of lawmakers, changes that will take effect immediately after the next election.

Mugabe, has led Zimbabwe since independence in 1980 and is Africa’s oldest leader at 89.