By Showbiz Reporter-Zora music icon Leonard Zhakata has delayed collecting a brand-new car he was gifted by ZANU PF supporter and convicted fraudster Wicknell Chivhayo.

The controversial businessman handed over vehicles on Monday to Zhakata, gospel legend Baba Mechanic Manyeruke, and singer Olivia Charamba.

By the end of the day, Manyeruke and Charamba had taken possession of their new 2024 Toyota Fortuners, but Zhakata had yet to claim his.

Chivhayo shared the gesture on his social media, explaining that the gifts were a tribute to the musicians who inspired him and his late mother, Canisia Chivayo, during challenging times.

Chivhayo’s post also reflected on personal moments, including his mother’s death on January 6, 2021, and her impact on his life.

“Her sacrifices, hard work, and UNSHAKABLE FAITH in my potential shaped me into the man I am today,” wrote Chivhayo. He revealed he spent his birthday at Glenforest Cemetery, laying flowers in her honor, adding: “The EMOTIONAL weight of the day made it impossible for me to celebrate in the usual way.”

Chivhayo used the occasion to celebrate three music legends whose songs he said brought him and his mother solace.

“My favorite songs ‘Ndinamatire Ndigo Kunamatirawo,’ ‘Ndiri Munana,’ and ‘Hupenyu Mutoro’ gave us hope and strength to PERSEVERE,” he said, crediting Manyeruke, Charamba, and Zhakata, respectively, for their contributions.

The cars were made available for collection at Faramatsi Motors in Harare. 

Chivhayo described the vehicles as a “small token” to honor the artists’ unmatched contributions to the music industry and their influence on his life journey.

“Please accept this as my SMALL TOKEN to appreciate your unmatched contributions to the music industry and your role in shaping many life journeys,” he wrote.

Chivhayo pledged to continue supporting individuals of his choice as part of his birthday tradition, which he said is rooted in giving back to the community.

While Zhakata’s reasons for the delay remain unclear, his peers have already embraced their gifts, stirring reactions fromfans and critics alike over Chivhayo’s high-profile generosity.

Efforts to get a comment from Zhakata were fruitless.