Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo has ridiculed the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (Zacc) for allegedly attempting to investigate the source of his unexplained wealth. Chivayo, known for his extravagant spending, particularly on cars for Zanu PF supporters, expressed his anger towards Zacc for leaking an internal memo, which he believed was an attempt to intimidate and extort him.
Chivayo sarcastically questioned why Zacc was interested in investigating the purchase of Toyota Aqua cars for members of the apostolic sect, suggesting they should include him in their car program as well. The leaked memo, referenced as AFRU 01/03/23, revealed that Zacc initiated an investigation into Chivayo’s wealth in March of the previous year, triggered by his lavish displays of wealth and extravagant spending.
According to the memo, Zacc sought information from various organizations, including the Finance Intelligence Unit, regarding Chivayo’s bank transactions. They also checked his compliance with the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, as well as his personal properties with the City of Harare. The memo indicated that Zacc intended to seize property valued at US$7 million due to an inability to explain the source of Chivayo’s wealth.
In his usual flamboyant manner, Chivayo announced that he had allocated US$3 million for his church and vowed to replace every car if Zacc were to seize any. He vehemently denied any wrongdoing and accused Zacc of viewing wealthy individuals as thieves. Chivayo pleaded with Zacc not to harass members of the apostolic sect and boldly stated that he had set aside an additional US$400,000 for the purchase of 50 more Aqua cars.
Chivayo has gained notoriety for his generous gifting of Mercedes-Benz cars to musicians and socialites who support President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the ruling Zanu PF party. Artists such as Jah Prayzah, Sandra Ndebele, Sulumani Chimbetu, and Seh Calaz have received these lavish gifts from him.
