Rudland claims extortion plot behind smear campaign

Zimbabwean billionaire Simon Rudland says he is the target of an alleged extortion attempt and coordinated social media smear campaign that has falsely linked him to plots to destabilise President Emmerson Mnangagwa's government.

Rudland, the co-owner of Gold Leaf Tobacco Corporation, said anonymous social media accounts have circulated claims that he is financing political activities aimed at overthrowing Mnangagwa's administration — accusations he strongly denies.

The businessman, whose investments span tobacco, mining, construction and logistics, oversees enterprises employing more than 30,000 people and valued at over US$1 billion.

Responding to the allegations, Rudland said the claims were baseless and designed to damage his reputation.

"I generally avoid social media, but it is deeply troubling and unacceptable to see my name attached to unfounded conspiracy theories clearly designed to damage my professional reputation," he said.

Sources familiar with the matter claim the smear campaign may have been triggered after Rudland allegedly refused to provide funding for certain projects linked to the ruling Zanu PF party.

According to the sources, individuals said to be aligned with the party allegedly attempted to solicit financial support from the businessman. When he declined, they reportedly launched an online campaign to tarnish his image.

The controversy comes amid heightened political tensions surrounding Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, which proposes extending Mnangagwa's tenure beyond 2028.

False reports circulating online claimed Rudland was secretly funding the Constitution Defenders Forum (CDF), a pressure group opposing the amendment and led by former Finance Minister Tendai Biti.

The allegations also suggested collusion between Rudland, Biti and former Local Government minister Saviour Kasukuwere in a purported plan to destabilise the state.

The developments coincide with broader actions targeting critics of the proposed constitutional changes. Zanu PF activist Talent Rusere has approached the courts seeking orders to bar several prominent figures, including Biti and lawyer Fadzai Mahere, from speaking publicly against the amendment.

Meanwhile, constitutional lawyer Lovemore Madhuku, who represents war veterans challenging the bill, was recently attacked despite the presence of police officers. Madhuku and Biti have both approached the courts to challenge police restrictions on meetings discussing the proposed constitutional changes.

Despite the controversy and online attacks, Rudland said he remains committed to supporting government-led economic initiatives and continuing to expand his business operations in Zimbabwe.