In a surprising and possibly illegal move, Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa has appointed General Phillip Valerio Sibanda, the commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, as a key member of the Zanu PF party’s decision-making group, the politburo. This announcement was made during the Zanu PF annual conference in Gweru. This step is seen by many as a way to ensure the military’s influence in politics and to prevent any potential coups.

This decision comes soon after Lieutenant-General Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe was named the new commander of the Zimbabwe National Army. Sanyatwe, who once led the Presidential Guard and played a major role in the 2017 coup that removed the late former president Robert Mugabe, is a close ally of Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga. However, President Mnangagwa is said to be wary of Sanyatwe, highlighting the complex relationships within Zimbabwe’s top political and military circles.

At the Zanu PF conference, President Mnangagwa spoke about changes to the party’s constitution for 2023. He said these changes were meant to solve the country’s economic and political problems and to help lift people out of poverty. Among these announcements was the appointment of Cde Rose Mpofu from Matabeleland South Province as a new Politburo Member and the Secretary for People with Disabilities, replacing the late Cde Joshua Teke Malinga.

However, it was General Sibanda’s appointment as an Ex Officio Member of the Politburo that caused the most stir. This action is seen as going against Section 211 of the Zimbabwean constitution, which says that the Defence Forces should be non-partisan, protect citizens’ rights, and stay under civilian control. President Mnangagwa’s decision appears to ignore these rules, mixing military and political roles in a way that some believe could harm the country’s democracy.

General Sibanda’s new political role shows a growing military influence in Zimbabwe’s politics, which might change how political decisions are made. Critics say this move goes against the principles of the constitution and could lead to military control over politics. Supporters of the President, however, might see it as a smart move to strengthen his position in a complex political environment.

As Zimbabwe faces these new challenges, the importance of following the constitution and the effects of military involvement in politics will be key topics of discussion. This decision not only questions constitutional rules but also highlights the need to balance military and political power to ensure stable and democratic governance.

In the coming months, the people of Zimbabwe and the international community will closely watch these developments. The actions of President Mnangagwa and the reactions of other political players will shape the future of Zimbabwe’s politics. Will this move help stabilize the country, or will it lead to more conflicts and challenges? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: Zimbabwe is entering a new and uncertain chapter in its political history.