Zimbabwe’s anti-corruption commission, the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), is seeking to question two associates of businessman Wicknell Chivayo in connection with a murky $40 million tender awarded by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC). Mike Chimombe, a Zanu PF member and president of the Economic Empowerment Group (EEG), and Moses Mpofu are reportedly out of the country and unavailable for immediate questioning.
The probe centers on a controversial tender awarded to a company linked to Chivayo for the supply of election materials ahead of last year’s polls. Leaked audio recordings allegedly featuring Chivayo have surfaced on social media, suggesting he received help from high-ranking officials to secure the contract. In the recordings, Chivayo reportedly claims to have shared proceeds from the deal.
Chimombe and Mpofu’s lawyers informed ZACC that their clients are currently abroad and will cooperate with the investigation upon their return. The lawyers did not specify when the return would be.
Chivayo Denies Wrongdoing, YL Denounces Public Spats
Chivayo has vehemently denied any wrongdoing and claims the leaked recordings are fabricated. He maintains he did not secure a $40 million deal with the ZEC. However, reports suggest that Mabvuku-Tafara legislator Pedzisayi “Scott” Sakupwanya’s company, Better Brands Security, was used to channel the inflated contract through a South African firm, REN-form.
Moreover, the ongoing saga has caused friction within Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu PF. The party’s Youth League (YL) has publicly rebuked Chivayo for his continued association with President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his alleged attempts to tarnish the President’s reputation. However, the leaked audio depicts Chivayo boasting about his close ties to the President and his influence within the government.
ZACC Faces Pressure to Deliver Results
The ZACC is under increasing pressure to deliver tangible results in its fight against corruption. This case has garnered significant public attention due to the high-profile figures involved and the substantial sum of money allegedly misappropriated. The unavailability of Chimombe and Mpofu for questioning presents a temporary hurdle for the investigation’s progress.
Source: New Zimbabwe
