President Mnangagwa Reverses General Sibanda’s Politburo Appointment

President Mnangagwa has decided to postpone the appointment of Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) Commander General Philip Valerio Sibanda to the ruling ZANU PF party’s Politburo. The decision, announced by Deputy Chief Secretary in the Office of the President and Cabinet Mr. George Charamba, is aimed at addressing the perceived conflict with the country’s Constitution.

In a statement on Saturday, Mr. Charamba explained that the deferment of General Sibanda’s appointment is a temporary measure to resolve potential conflicts arising from his position as a senior serving officer at the helm of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF). The President has indicated that the appointment will be reviewed at the conclusion of General Sibanda’s term leading the ZDF. This approach aligns with constitutional regulations governing the involvement of serving members of the Security Services in political roles.

Mr George Charamba announced:

“His Excellency The President, DR E.D. Mnangagwa, has announced the staying(suspension) of General PV Sibanda’s appointment to the ruling ZANU PF Party Politburo as an ex-officio member. The position will be reviewed at the expiry of General Sibanda’s term as a senior serving officer at the helm of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, ZDF. This deferment of the appointment resolves the apparent conflict with the country’s Constitution, which regulates the conduct of serving members of the security forces.”