By Pelagia Moyo
For decades, his voice was impossible to ignore.
Long before social media influencers and podcast hosts dominated public conversation, Ezra “Tshisa” Sibanda commanded the attention of millions of Zimbabweans through the power of radio. Whether behind the microphone at Radio 2 — now Radio Zimbabwe — or delivering gripping football commentary that brought stadium atmospheres into homes across the country, Sibanda became one of the defining voices of Zimbabwean broadcasting.
Now, reports that the veteran broadcaster has joined ZANU PF UK have sparked intense debate across Zimbabwe and within the diaspora community.
For supporters of the ruling party, Sibanda’s reported move represents the arrival of a respected media figure with unmatched communication skills and deep connections across generations of Zimbabweans. For critics, it raises fresh questions about the growing trend of prominent former opposition figures and public personalities gravitating towards the country’s governing party.
Whatever the motivation, one thing is certain: Ezra “Tshisa” Sibanda remains one of Zimbabwe’s most influential media personalities.
Ezra Sibanda rose to prominence during Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation’s golden era, becoming a household name through Radio 2, now known as Radio Zimbabwe.
At a time when radio was the country’s most powerful mass medium, Sibanda distinguished himself with his commanding voice, natural charisma and ability to connect with audiences from every corner of Zimbabwe.
His broadcasting career began after talent scouts identified his public speaking abilities while he was still an A-Level student. Sibanda has often argued that broadcasting is a gift that cannot simply be taught in classrooms, insisting that passion and natural ability remain the foundation of great radio.
Alongside fellow broadcasting legends such as Eric Knight, Charles Mabika, Kingsley Sibanda and Evans Mambara, he helped shape an era when radio personalities enjoyed celebrity status and football commentary captivated entire communities.
For countless Zimbabweans, listening to football on the radio was more than entertainment — it was a shared national experience.
Sibanda’s energetic commentary style transformed ordinary matches into unforgettable events. His vivid descriptions and unmistakable delivery allowed listeners to feel every tackle, every goal and every moment of drama.
Even in today’s digital age, many football fans still remember his commentary with deep nostalgia.
Forced From The Airwaves
Like several prominent broadcasters of his generation, Sibanda’s career at the state broadcaster ended amid political changes during the early 2000s.
As Zimbabwe’s media environment became increasingly polarised, a number of well-known radio personalities left the national broadcaster or relocated abroad.
Sibanda eventually moved to the United Kingdom, where he remained active in media and community affairs while maintaining a strong presence among Zimbabweans in the diaspora.
Despite leaving Zimbabwe, he never lost touch with his audience.
Through public appearances, interviews and social commentary, he continued to engage Zimbabweans at home and abroad, building a loyal following that extended far beyond traditional radio listeners.
Long before reports emerged linking him to ZANU PF, Sibanda had already tested the waters of politics.
During the final years of former President Robert Mugabe’s administration, he returned to Zimbabwe and entered active politics under the Movement for Democratic Change led by Morgan Tsvangirai.
In 2013, Sibanda successfully won the MDC-T primary elections to become the party’s parliamentary candidate for Vungu Constituency in Midlands Province.
His campaign generated significant excitement, with many supporters believing his popularity and communication skills could translate into electoral success.
However, the parliamentary dream ultimately fell short.
Sibanda lost the general election to the incumbent ZANU PF candidate amid a fiercely contested national poll that saw the ruling party secure a decisive victory.
Following the election, he remained outspoken about Zimbabwe’s political future while continuing his work in media and community engagement.
If reports of his move to ZANU PF are confirmed, Sibanda would join a growing list of former opposition activists, public figures and professionals who have crossed the political divide in recent years.
His former colleague and fellow broadcasting icon, Eric Knight — popularly known as “Knight Rider” — also made headlines after previously aligning himself with ZANU PF before later returning to opposition politics.
Political analysts remain divided over the reasons behind the increasing number of high-profile defections to the ruling party.
Some argue that the trend reflects changing political realities and shifting loyalties, while others believe access to opportunities, influence and material benefits associated with the governing party may play a role.
These claims, however, remain matters of public debate and have not been independently verified.
THE POWER OF INFLUENCE
Regardless of political affiliation, few would dispute Ezra Sibanda’s enduring influence.
His voice accompanied Zimbabweans through football matches, national events and moments of cultural significance.
His career spans broadcasting, commentary, political activism and community engagement, giving him a unique ability to connect with audiences across social and political divides.
For ZANU PF, attracting a personality of Sibanda’s stature could strengthen its outreach, particularly among Zimbabweans living abroad and older generations who grew up listening to his broadcasts.
For the opposition, his reported move would represent the loss of another familiar face from a generation that once embodied political change.
But for many Zimbabweans, Ezra “Tshisa” Sibanda remains what he has always been — a broadcaster whose voice became part of the nation’s collective memory.
Whether behind a microphone or on a political platform, Zimbabwe will continue to listen.
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