Zanu-PF bigwig refuses to share property earned from politics in divorce settlement

Deputy Minister of Agriculture Davis Marapira is seeking to exclude assets he says were acquired through his political career from the distribution of matrimonial property in his divorce from his estranged wife, Sibusisiwe Melody Marapira (nee Mutendi).

Court papers filed at the High Court in Harare on July 23, 2026, show that Marapira, through his lawyers, Chibaya Law Chambers, argues that properties obtained through Government, his political connections or Zanu-PF should not form part of the matrimonial estate because of their sentimental value.

The divorce proceedings involving the daughter of Zion Christian Church (ZCC) Bishop Nehemiah Mutendi have brought into focus an extensive asset portfolio that includes several vehicles, farms and properties in Zimbabwe and South Africa.

In his plea, Marapira also argues that assets acquired before the marriage was solemnised should remain his exclusive property.

"Plaintiff has no contribution cognizable and relative to oust the defendant's sentimental value to the properties.

"The defendant's involvement in national politics constitutes a fundamental aspect of his personal and professional life. The assets in question are inextricably linked to his political career, public service and personal history, embodying significant memories, experiences and achievements accumulated over many years.

"Their loss would therefore occasion substantial personal prejudice beyond their mere monetary value," the court papers read.

Although the court documents indicate that Marapira owns several farms allegedly acquired through Government allocations or political connections, the properties are not individually identified in the filing.

However, he specifically lists four vehicles which he says were obtained through Government or Zanu-PF and should not be shared. These include a Land Rover Defender (AGQ 5976), Ford Motor (AGH 3338), Toyota Land Cruiser (AFK 1988) and a Nissan Navara (AGE 0797), which he says was provided by Zanu-PF.

Marapira further states that his estranged wife is in possession of a South African-registered Ford Ranger Platinum (MM-13-GC_GP), which he says he purchased for her, and questions why it was not disclosed in her divorce papers.

Despite opposing the inclusion of certain assets in the matrimonial estate, Marapira has proposed that Sibusisiwe be awarded a fully furnished residential apartment in Pretoria, South Africa, a fully furnished four-bedroom house in Defe, Gokwe, and an industrial property in Masvingo.

Under his proposed settlement, he would retain a low-density stand in Clipsham, Masvingo, and Number 589 Campbell Road, Borrowdale.

The divorce proceedings also involve a dispute over the custody of the couple's children.

The matter remains before the High Court, which will determine the division of the matrimonial estate and other outstanding issues between the parties.