By Sports Reporter- Zanu PF apologist and controversial businessman Wicknell Chivhayo has initiated a new series of donations.
Known for his close ties with President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Chivhayo’s latest contributions include the donation of 20 Toyota Aqua vehicles to the newly promoted Premier Soccer League (PSL) team, Scotland FC.
He has also pledged an impressive USD 1 million to the team, in addition to USD 600,000 specifically allocated for player signings and infrastructure improvements.
Scotland FC, owned by Scott Pedzisai Sakupwanya—a prominent businessman, gold dealer, and Zanu PF parliamentarian representing Mabvuku/Tafara—is closely linked to the ruling elite.
Sakupwanya’s close association with President Mnangagwa and his role in Zanu PF fundraising have further fueled speculation around Chivhayo’s latest moves, suggesting that these donations might be strategically timed to bolster the ruling party’s image.
Chivhayo’s name is often associated with allegations of fraud and corruption.
Over the years, he has been embroiled in several high-profile scandals, raising concerns about his business practices and his relationship with Zimbabwe’s political elite.
Among his most contentious dealings is his involvement in the Gwanda solar project, where he allegedly misappropriated millions of dollars from the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) without fulfilling his contractual obligations.
Initially intended to address Zimbabwe’s severe power shortages, the project stalled after the funds reportedly disappeared with no tangible progress, leading to public outrage and calls for accountability.
Chivhayo’s connections with influential figures in Zanu PF, including Mnangagwa, have shielded him from significant legal consequences in most cases, sparking accusations of favouritism and impunity.
Critics argue that these relationships have enabled him to secure lucrative government contracts despite his dubious track record. His frequent public displays of wealth, often flaunted on social media, have only added to the controversy surrounding him.
Chivhayo’s latest wave of donations is perceived by many as a calculated manoeuvre to align himself further with Mnangagwa and Zanu PF’s inner circle, especially as Zimbabwe heads into politically charged times.
As the ruling party seeks to strengthen its public image, especially among youth and sports fans, Chivhayo’s investments in Scotland FC appear to serve a dual purpose: bolstering the PSL team while enhancing his standing with Zanu PF’s top brass.
Observers suggest that Chivhayo’s actions serve to reinforce Zanu PF’s influence over Zimbabwean sports, particularly football, which has a massive following across the country.
Through Chivhayo’s financial backing, Scotland FC is positioned not only to succeed in the PSL but also to serve as a tool for political allegiance, given Sakupwanya’s connections and role within Zanu PF.