Businessman Wicknell Chivayo has withdrawn his controversial US$3.6 million pledge to Zimbabwe’s Members of Parliament and Senators, only to replace it with a larger US$5 million commitment directed through Zanu PF’s provincial structures—an abrupt shift that turns a disputed gesture into a significant boost for the ruling party.
In a detailed statement shared on social media, Chivayo said he had taken into account concerns raised by the Zanu PF Youth League, which warned that the original offer could be viewed as an attempt to improperly influence legislators. However, he maintained that his initial pledge had been made “in good faith” to mark Zimbabwe’s 46th Independence anniversary, emphasizing that it was intended to support development rather than serve political ends.
“There was never any intention whatsoever for that gesture to be misconstrued… as an attempt to influence the august house,” he said.
The original proposal—equivalent to about US$10,000 for each of the roughly 360 MPs and Senators—came shortly before Parliament is expected to consider contentious constitutional amendments introduced by Zanu PF. These proposals have drawn strong opposition from political rivals, churches, and civil society groups.
Chivayo, a close ally of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, conceded that his approach may have been flawed. He described himself as a “political novice” and admitted that he may have overlooked proper channels and timing.
“I recognise that the way the pledge was communicated was probably not ideal,” he said, expressing regret over the backlash.
Despite that, he quickly reframed his move as an adjustment rather than a withdrawal. He announced a revised US$5 million pledge, to be distributed as US$500,000 to each of Zimbabwe’s ten provinces through party leadership structures, aimed at supporting grassroots development projects.
Chivayo also appeared to criticise the Youth League’s public response, suggesting internal engagement would have been more appropriate. He argued that such issues should be handled through party dialogue rather than public statements, especially given his limited involvement in daily party activities.
The episode highlights underlying tensions within Zanu PF. The Youth League—through a statement signed by deputy secretary John Paradza—had urged Parliament to reject the initial donation, warning against any perception that lawmakers could be influenced by financial contributions.
The controversy is unfolding alongside debate over Constitutional Amendment (No. 3), which critics argue could alter key democratic processes, including presidential elections and term limits.
By redirecting the funds away from Parliament and into provincial party structures, Chivayo appears to have addressed concerns about institutional integrity while still ensuring the money supports Zanu PF’s local networks.
Chivayo also claimed that he has spent over US$200 million on charitable and humanitarian initiatives across Zimbabwe and the region in the past three years. His association with businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei—often linked to political ambitions—and his role in government-linked projects continue to keep him influential within the country’s political and economic landscape.
Despite this visibility, Chivayo insisted he has no political ambitions: “I am not a politician and I do not aspire to become one. Never.”
