Zimbabwean MP demands probe into Chivayo's wealth

A prominent opposition lawmaker has called on the government to investigate the "unexplained wealth" of businessman Wicknell Chivayo, whose high-profile donations of luxury vehicles, cash handouts, and corporate gifts have sparked renewed public scrutiny and debate over financial transparency.

Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) MP for Imbizo, Corban Madzivanyika, raised the matter in Parliament, questioning the source and legality of Chivayo's multimillion-dollar donations and urging authorities to determine whether financial laws are being complied with.

During a heated session last week, Madzivanyika cited several high-value donations, including ambulances, fuel supplies, and cash gifts, arguing that the scale and frequency of the transactions warranted investigation under existing financial regulations.

"We have seen in the past individuals holding millions of cash, distributing and making donations," he said, asking whether the Ministry of Home Affairs was actively probing such cases.

Home Affairs Minister Kazembe Kazembe responded by distancing his ministry from direct financial oversight, saying possession of large sums of cash is not in itself illegal.

"The Hon. Member clearly stated that cash withdrawals have a limit of US$10,000. However, that does not translate to an offence if someone has more than US$10 000," he said.

He added that banking limits are regulated by financial institutions and suggested that any broader concerns should be directed to the Ministry of Finance.

Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube reinforced this position, stating that repeated withdrawals could result in large cash holdings without breaching the law.

"You can keep withdrawing for the next 10 days or 30 days… It is not illegal to be found in possession of that money at all. There is no illegality," he said.

However, Madzivanyika insisted that the issue extended beyond withdrawals, raising concerns about potential money laundering and possible violations of the Exchange Control Act.

"We have seen letters addressed to banks requesting withdrawals of such large sums of money," he said, arguing that such transactions should be subject to closer scrutiny.

Minister Kazembe challenged the MP to submit formal evidence to support the allegations, saying law enforcement requires documented proof before initiating investigations.

The debate comes amid increasing public attention on Chivayo's financial activities, including donations of luxury vehicles, large cash sums, and contributions to religious organisations, musicians, and social groups.

Chivayo has also faced scrutiny over past business dealings, particularly his involvement in the stalled US$200 million Gwanda solar project, which led to a legal dispute after substantial advance payments were made for work that was not completed.

The matter has intensified calls for stronger oversight of large cash transactions and heightened transparency in high-value private donations in Zimbabwe.