Police Chief Augustine Chihuri fired, Sibanda promoted, Chiwenga retired… set to be VP

Police Chief Augustine Chihuri has finally been relieved of his duties after weeks of speculation. A statement issued by the Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Misheck Sibanda said Chihuri started his leave on 15 December 2017, pending his retirement from the service. Deputy Commissioner General Godwin Matanga takes over as Acting Commissioner General.

Constantino Chiwenga, who led the de facto coup that ended Robert Mugabe’s 37-year rule last month, is set to retire, paving the way towards his widely anticipated appointment as vice president.

Chiwenga is the top contender to become new President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s deputy, one of two posts Mnangagwa has promised to fill in the next few days. Army Commander Phillip Sibanda will succeed Chiwenga as defence forces chief, the statement said.