By Ziyah News Reporter
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has sent Zimbabwean tongue wagging after downplaying his relationship with flamboyant businessman Wicknell Chivayo, who has been handing out luxury cars and cash to individuals who supported the President’s re-election in 2023.
During an interactive session with editors from various media houses at State House on Monday, Mnangagwa was asked if Chivayo was his “front”, to which he responded with a joke, saying “Ah my front.”
Do you see him? I don’t see him,” drawing laughter from the journalists.
However, the President’s attempt to dismiss the allegations has raised more questions than answers.
Chivayo has been on a high-profile gifting spree, sparking speculation that he is being bankrolled by the President.
Mnangagwa denied these claims, saying “So find out first where I get the money to give Chivayo to give to people rather than wasting my time about somebody using his money. So you can’t bother me about somebody who’s philanthropic.”
The President also stated that if Chivayo were a criminal, he would have instructed the police to take action, urging anyone who has been robbed by Chivayo to report it to the police.
“”If he were stealing the money, I would have sent the police. If someone was robbed, please report.,” he stated in shona.
This comes after a leaked audio last year, in which Chivayo bragged about having a tight grip on the system and being the President’s “blue-eyed boy”, getting all important contracts.
He even claimed that the President considers him a son.
The close ties between Mnangagwa and Chivayo have raised concerns about corruption and favoritism in the Zimbabwean government.
The opposition has long accused the President of using his power to enrich his allies and cronies, and the latest revelations have only added fuel to the fire.
The President’s comments on the matter were not clear, but his relationship with Chivayo is likely to remain under scrutiny in the coming days.