Chivayo rejects bribery allegations over proposed gift to Advocate Uriri

BUSINESSMAN Wicknell Chivayo has dismissed allegations that a proposed gift to Advocate Lewis Uriri SC was intended to bribe or improperly influence the senior lawyer, insisting it was merely a gesture of appreciation that was offered at an unfortunate time.

Responding to public criticism, Chivayo said he was unaware that Uriri was representing another party in legal proceedings involving interests linked to him when he made the offer.

While conceding that the timing was inappropriate, he strongly denied suggestions that the proposed gift was an attempt to interfere with the administration of justice.

"Yes, I openly admit that the timing was unfortunate. Had I known that Advocate Uriri was presently appearing for another party in proceedings involving interests associated with me, common sense dictates that I would never have offered him anything at that particular time," Chivayo said.

"I simply did not know. I am a successful businessman, not a lawyer. I have enormous business interests and major projects across several jurisdictions competing for my attention every single day."

Chivayo said this lack of knowledge was precisely why he relied on legal representatives to manage his legal affairs.

He further argued that the public manner in which the offer was made undermined claims that it was a covert attempt to influence the advocate.

"What kind of person attempting something sinister announces it publicly?" he said.

"There was no secret approach, no clandestine meeting, no hidden payment and no condition attached. I publicly announced a gift, exactly as I have publicly announced countless gifts to different people. Advocate Uriri publicly declined it."

Chivayo said he respected Uriri's decision to reject the gift and harboured no ill feelings towards him.

"Advocate Uriri exercised his professional judgment and declined the gift. I respect that completely. There are no hard feelings whatsoever," he said.

Addressing matters currently before the courts, Chivayo said they should be determined through the judicial process and not debated on social media.

"As for matters presently before the courts, they belong in the courts. We respect the judiciary and allow judicial officers to determine matters independently on the evidence and the law," he said.

"I will not litigate cases on social media, nor will I interfere with matters that are sub judice."

Chivayo also criticised some war veterans who have challenged matters linked to him, while acknowledging their right to seek legal recourse.

"I must also say with utmost due respect to the applicants, who are the war veterans, that we love and respect you and you are entitled to be heard by our courts," he said.

He questioned why he had become the focus of criticism over legislation passed by Parliament and signed into law by President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

"A law was passed by the majority in Parliament and the Senate and then signed into law. Why am I being blamed?" Chivayo said.

He also cited constitutional provisions that guarantee citizens the freedom to support political parties and presidential candidates of their choice, while reiterating his support for Mnangagwa remaining in office until 2030.

"The Constitution allows us all to choose and vote for a party and President of our choice," he said.

Chivayo concluded his statement by saying he was travelling aboard a Gulfstream G550 over the Swiss Alps and dismissed calls for Mnangagwa to leave office before 2030.

"I have nothing to hide," he said.