MNANGAGWA’S MOVE TO STAY SAFE: EXTENDING GENERAL SIBANDA’S TERM

President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe has extended the term of General Philip Valerio Sibanda, the Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, by another year. This move is seen as a way to secure his position as president, keep his rival Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga in check, and prevent any potential military coups against his rule.
An official announcement was made by the Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Martin Rushwaya. The statement read:
“General Notice 15 of 2025.
DEFENCE ACT [CHAPTER 11:02]
Extension of Term of the Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces
IT is hereby notified that His Excellency the President has, in terms of proviso (i) to the Defence (Regular Force) (Officers) Regulations 1988, published in Statutory Instrument 152 of 1988, extended the appointment of General Philip Valerio Sibanda as Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces with effect from the 24th December, 2024 to the 23rd November, 2025.
M. RUSHWAYA, Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet.”
This extension comes at a time when Mnangagwa’s position as leader is under pressure. Since coming to power in November 2017 through a military coup, Mnangagwa has relied on Sibanda as an ally. Sibanda has been key in keeping him in power, especially during difficult times.
In January 2019, when Mnangagwa was visiting Russia and other countries in Eastern Europe, there was a threat of a coup against him. Sibanda played a big role in ensuring Mnangagwa stayed in power. Without Sibanda’s support, Mnangagwa would have been in a vulnerable position.
Currently, Mnangagwa is in a serious power struggle with Chiwenga, who has strong support from the military. Chiwenga and his faction in the ruling Zanu PF party want more control, and this creates tension in the government. Mnangagwa’s decision to extend Sibanda’s term shows he is trying to strengthen his position against Chiwenga.
Mnangagwa also has long-term plans to remain in power. He wants to rule until 2030, even though the Constitution says his second term ends in 2028. By keeping Sibanda in his position, Mnangagwa is making sure the military stays on his side.
The extension of Sibanda’s term shows that Mnangagwa is aware of the risks he faces. If he loses support from the military, his leadership could be in danger. Sibanda is a trusted ally who has stood by Mnangagwa in the past, and this extension is a clear sign of how much Mnangagwa values him.
Zimbabwe’s political situation remains tense, with power struggles within the ruling party. The relationship between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga will continue to affect the country’s politics in the coming years.
By extending Sibanda’s term, Mnangagwa is sending a message that he is prepared to fight to stay in power. However, this move might also make his rivals more determined to challenge him. As the 2028 constitutional limit approaches, the battle for power in Zimbabwe is likely to become even more intense.
This decision highlights the importance of military support in Zimbabwean politics. Mnangagwa’s survival as president depends heavily on keeping the military on his side, and Sibanda plays a central role in this strategy.
While Mnangagwa’s move to extend Sibanda’s term may bring him some stability, it also shows the fragile nature of his leadership. With rivals like Chiwenga waiting for opportunities, the political future of Zimbabwe remains uncertain.
Mnangagwa’s strategy is clear: stay close to loyal allies like Sibanda and prepare for any challenges to his power. However, as history has shown, Zimbabwe’s politics can change quickly, and Mnangagwa will need to stay vigilant if he hopes to remain in control.