Chivayo responds to reports of bank limit adjustments

Businessman Wicknell Chivayo has strongly dismissed reports that he requested Ecobank to adjust two bank accounts to a US$20 million monthly limit after securing lucrative government contracts worth US$220 million. In a fiery response, Chivayo labeled the circulating letters and reports as "fabricated and false."

Chivayo's statement, shared on social media, directly attacked opposition politicians, accusing them of orchestrating a smear campaign. However, the controversy stems from remarks made earlier in the week by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga and war veterans, who issued warnings against corrupt individuals benefiting from "ill-gotten wealth."

The controversy began when letters, allegedly bearing Chivayo's signature, surfaced online, suggesting he had requested Ecobank to increase withdrawal limits for accounts linked to IMC Communications and Eden Breeze (Pty) Ltd. Chivayo vehemently denied these claims, asserting that the documents were forgeries meant to damage his reputation.

While Chivayo directed his anger at opposition activists, including lawyer Fadzai Mahere, the timing of his response suggests an overlap with Chiwenga's criticism of corrupt business dealings. This raises questions about whether Chivayo is attacking the opposition for spreading the reports or indirectly responding to Chiwenga, the original source of criticism.

In his statement, Chivayo accused Mahere of unlawfully replicating his signature from legal documents to fabricate the letters. He described the allegations as part of a calculated political attack fueled by jealousy and a lack of achievement among his detractors.

"This smear campaign is the work of bitter individuals who have failed to achieve what I have accomplished through my regional business engagements and philanthropic efforts," Chivayo stated. He also dismissed claims about the alleged bank transactions, questioning why he would require such large cash withdrawals in an era of digital transactions.

Chivayo reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to President Emmerson Mnangagwa and ZANU-PF, dismissing what he described as "veiled threats" from opposition politicians. He positioned himself as a self-made businessman, highlighting his early financial success and regional business dealings.

Despite the allegations, Chivayo insisted that all contracts awarded to his companies were based on merit, professionalism, and adherence to proper procurement procedures. He vowed to continue his philanthropic work and business expansion across Africa, undeterred by what he called "malicious propaganda."

While Chivayo maintains that the letters are fake, some financial analysts and banking officials have challenged Ecobank to clarify the situation. If proven authentic, the letters could raise further questions about Chivayo's business dealings and financial transactions.

As the controversy unfolds, the key question remains: Is Chivayo truly responding to opposition figures, or is his outrage an indirect rebuttal to Chiwenga's warning? With war veterans and high-ranking government officials weighing in on corruption, Chivayo finds himself at the center of a political storm that extends beyond mere social media disputes. Whether legal action follows remains to be seen, but the businessman remains defiant in the face of mounting scrutiny.