Chivayo denies rift with Chiwenga

Businessman Wicknell Chivayo has dismissed claims of a fallout with Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga, saying he holds the former military commander in high regard despite public perceptions of strained relations.

Chivayo described Chiwenga as "our father" in both government and the ruling party, insisting that there is no bad blood between them. He also said the Vice-President continues to work closely with President Emmerson Mnangagwa, rejecting suggestions of divisions at the top level of government.

"I love him the same way I love the President and Vice-President Kembo Mohadi," Chivayo said, portraying unity among the country's senior leadership.

The remarks come against the backdrop of tensions that have played out publicly over the past year, after Chiwenga criticised a group of politically connected business figures he labelled "zvigananda" - a term used to describe nouveau riche elites accused of benefiting from state patronage.

Chiwenga has linked such figures to alleged corruption and warned that their activities could destabilise the country. In September 2025, he reportedly presented a dossier ahead of a key ZANU PF politburo meeting, raising concerns about graft among allies of the President and drawing parallels with the events that led to the ousting of former leader Robert Mugabe in 2017.

The dossier is said to have named several prominent businessmen, including Kudakwashe Tagwirei, Pedzisayi Sakupwanya and Chivayo himself.

Despite this, Chivayo maintains that his relationship with Chiwenga remains cordial. He pointed to his support during Chiwenga's December 2023 wedding to Miniyothabo Baloyi, where he said he provided a fleet of luxury vehicles, including Rolls-Royce and Maybach cars.

The wedding ceremony was held at St Gerard Catholic Church, followed by a reception at Venue Umwinzii, attended by senior military and political figures.

However, outspoken former ZANU PF provincial chairperson Themba Mliswa has alleged that Chiwenga benefited significantly from Chivayo's financial support, including claims that the businessman funded a luxury honeymoon in Seychelles and provided additional cash for shopping and property purchases.

Mliswa further claimed that a fallout later emerged over unmet financial commitments, including outstanding balances linked to the alleged support.

Neither Chiwenga nor his office has publicly responded to the latest claims.

The developments highlight ongoing undercurrents within Zimbabwe's political and business elite, as debates around influence, patronage and succession continue to shape the country's political landscape.