Former ZDF Commander Linked To New Cabinet Post

Former Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) commander Philip Valerio Sibanda is reportedly set to join the Cabinet as part of a plan to restructure the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development.

The Zimbabwe Independent reported sources as saying Sibanda may also be appointed to the ruling ZANU PF party’s Politburo and could take over the Lands portfolio if it is separated from Agriculture.

Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Jenfan Muswere called the reports “speculation,” but said the President has the constitutional authority to reshuffle the Cabinet. Said Muswere:

“There is nothing of that nature. These are merely speculations. We work with the prevailing status quo, and the President has the constitutional authority to make changes to his cabinet without limitation.

“Should there be any developments, the media will be informed accordingly.”

Sibanda, who retired from the military in November 2025, is reportedly likely to be appointed Minister of Lands if the government goes ahead with the planned restructuring.

Under the proposal, current Agriculture Minister Anxious Masuka would continue to oversee agriculture, fisheries, water, and rural development. The sources said discussions were at an advanced stage, but no final decision had been made.

For Sibanda, the move would be a major change, shifting from a long military career into civilian government leadership.

Officials said the reshuffle is part of a wider government plan to reorganise the Cabinet and strengthen oversight of politically sensitive areas.

Land remains one of the most sensitive and contested issues in Zimbabwe, with disputes over multiple farm ownership, elite accumulation, and insecure tenure.

A senior government official familiar with the discussions was quoted as saying:

“General Sibanda is earmarked for cabinet. The lands portfolio is being carved out, and he is seen as someone the President trusts to manage the politics around land, particularly disputes involving war veterans, senior party officials and powerful interest groups.”

Sibanda began his military career as a ZIPRA guerrilla fighter during the liberation struggle and eventually became commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.