Chivayo blows US$3m on luxury cars for Zanu-PF chiefs

Published: 2 hours ago

Public outrage is mounting after flamboyant businessman Wicknell Chivayo splashed out more than US$3 million on luxury vehicles for Zanu-PF's provincial leadership, reigniting long-standing questions about the source of his wealth.

Chivayo, a self-proclaimed supporter of the ruling party, recently handed over brand-new 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series VXR vehicles - each valued at about US$190,000 - to all ten Provincial Chairpersons. He said the gesture was to celebrate President Emmerson Mnangagwa's 82nd birthday.

In addition to the cars, Chivayo also gifted each chairperson US$100,000 in cash for "development and empowerment projects" in their provinces.

"My apologies for not having done something sooner, especially following Zanu-PF's resounding victory in the 2023 harmonised elections," Chivayo wrote on his X (formerly Twitter) page. "As a small token of appreciation, I extend a big congratulations to ALL TEN Provincial Chairpersons."

Chivayo's largesse has once again triggered fierce debate. Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has recently criticised people who flaunt wealth obtained through dubious means, branding them "zvigananda" - a Shona term referring to dishonest profiteers. President Mnangagwa, however, has previously defended Chivayo, describing him as a philanthropist free to spend his money as he pleases.

The apparent difference in tone between Mnangagwa and his deputy points to possible tensions within the ruling party over the businessman's controversial dealings and extravagant displays of wealth.

As part of the birthday celebrations, Chivayo also announced the donation of ten state-of-the-art Toyota Land Cruiser ICU ambulances, each worth US$90,000, to provincial hospitals. While the move drew some praise, many Zimbabweans remain deeply sceptical, with critics portraying him as a fraudster who launders money through publicity stunts.

The fresh controversy has placed Chivayo back in the spotlight, intensifying calls for greater transparency around his business dealings and political patronage.
- online

Tags: Chivayo,