By Ziyah News Reporter
Controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo could soon face a parliamentary investigation over his alleged involvement in the controversial US$100 million Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) tender scandal.
The possibility arises after a formal petition was submitted by Kwekwe-based activist Emmanuel Nkosilathi Moyo, urging Parliament to examine potential money laundering and illicit financial activities linked to Chivayo’s companies.
In his petition addressed to Parliament Speaker Jacob Mudenda, Moyo called for lawmakers to use their oversight powers to scrutinize the dealings surrounding the tender, which has raised serious concerns over the management of public funds.
Moyo referenced constitutional provisions Sections 119, 298, and 299 and Standing Orders 159(2) of the National Assembly and 149(2) of the Senate, suggesting that Parliament has the authority to investigate such matters.
What makes this case particularly unusual is a report from South Africa’s Financial Intelligence Centre (SAFIC), which flagged red flags over potential criminal conduct in the transaction.
The report revealed that Chivayo received approximately R800 million (about US$40 million) from a total of R1.2 billion (around US$66 million) paid to South African company Ren-Form CC, contracted to supply voting materials for Zimbabwe’s August 2023 elections.
SAFIC’s findings indicate that Chivayo moved the funds rapidly through multiple personal and corporate bank accounts across major South African banks, including FNB, Standard Bank, and Absa. The report suggests suspicious activity, such as quick transfers and cash withdrawals, which could point to money laundering. Portions of the funds reportedly went toward luxury purchases, including designer clothes, high-end vehicles, electronics, real estate, and international travel.
Moyo emphasizes that Parliament must investigate how public money was used, raising the question: Could Chivayo’s actions be part of a broader pattern of illicit financial activity?
The petition underscores the importance of transparency and accountability, especially given the large sums involved.
While no formal investigation has yet been launched, the unusual circumstances and the seriousness of the allegations suggest that Chivayo could indeed face parliamentary scrutiny.